"Clark knows his subject and his subjects"
Clark's work in portraiture is a strength...his images of children are warm and engaging, the laughing eyes of The Cowboys from Coonamble and The Drovers Boys from Gulargambone inviting the viewer to join their fun.
His adult portraits are unexpectedly moving as Clark uncovers and exposes the stoicism and sadness of his subjects. Once again drawing on iconic symbols of the outback, the men in Clark's photographs are studies in guarded emotion and strength.
While his works address issues such as drought and hardship, Clark approaches his subject with a familiarity and warmth which prevents his photographs from lapsing into preachy sentimentality.
He has lived in these places, he seems to know these people and his photographs invite the viewer to join him in this knowledge.
Charly Ogilvie
Canberra Times July 3, 2004
Review of Darren Clark - Images of the Outback
Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery
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