Contact:  Kyla Kruse

SPRINGFIELD — The Trutter Museum & Murray Gallery at Lincoln Land Community College will host the exhibit “Lines” Nov. 2-Dec. 4. The exhibit features glass works by Springfield-based artist Mario Clarke. Visitors are invited to view the exhibit weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and attend a closing reception in the museum/gallery on Thursday, Dec. 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. The museum and gallery are located on the upper level of Menard Hall on the LLCC Springfield campus, 5250 Shepherd Road.

Clarke’s contemporary vessels and sculptural forms blend technical mastery with a designer’s eye for line, balance and composition. Drawing on traditional Venetian cane-working techniques such as zanfirico and merletto, he creates works that exist between function and sculpture. Flowing lines twist, intersect and diverge throughout his work, reflecting the paths, relationships and unexpected connections that shape the human experience. His intricate craftsmanship and layered patterns invite close observation while inspiring curiosity and reflection.

Raised in nearby Mt. Olive, Illinois, Clarke began his artistic journey at LLCC before earning a bachelor's degree in graphic design and photography from Illinois State University in 2017. While at ISU, he began studying glass under John Miller, American studio glass movement artist. He continued his glass education through advanced study, including time at the renowned Pilchuck Glass School and professional experience in Murano, Italy, working with Fabiano Zanchi, master chandelier maker. Today, Clarke serves as the glass studio manager and technician at the Springfield Art Association and is the organization's first glass blowing instructor.

Learn more about LLCC’s Trutter Museum & Murray Gallery and its exhibits at www.llcc.edu/trutter-murray.