5 Questions with Ankara Clarke

"Creativity is contagious, pass it on.” This quote by Albert Einstein seems to be the foundation for Ankara Clarke's living. She is bursting with personality and passion, and while she does, she shares her art to bring feelings of inspiration and joy. Ankara holds several accolades: Specialist, Designer, and Educator. However, the journey she took to gain her achievements was not smooth sailing. Her love for what she does and the intention behind her craft kept her going. Today, the Education Jamaica Magazine wishes to share a piece of Ankara's journey with you. She seems to be a woman of little words, but we hope that what she shares with us and with the world, through her creativity, will bring a splash of colour to your life and journey.

1. Tell us a little about your educational journey?

My educational journey has not been an easy one. Many sacrifices were made along the way to get me where I am now. I am known as a visual artist, but my educational journey did not begin there. In fact, I always wanted to become a fashion designer. In 2012, I attained my ASc in Clothing and Fashion from Montego Bay Community College. I then pursued my B.Ed in Visual Arts at the Mico University. I was hesitant at first and only pursued it because I wanted job security after college. Instead, It broadens my horizons as a creative and love for inspiring other budding creatives.

In 2019, I made the boldest decision to pursue my MSc and start my art and fashion businesses. I left teaching. The year 2020 opened a can of worms as I entered a pandemic with two entrepreneurial endeavours and no job security. I was also awaiting acceptance results from two universities in the UK. I got accepted into De Montfort University’s Leicester Castle Business School programme, MSc Creative Industries Management and Enterprise. I finished the programme with a distinction and an award for Best Student Performance.

2. What keeps you motivated?

Helping others and making people happy motivates me.

3. What was your driving force to become an artist and designer?

My driving force was to create and always make a difference in the world. And because of that, I am many things: artist, designer, researcher, educator.

4. Tell us more about your work as an artist and how interested persons can connect.

I am inspired by nature, especially flora and fauna from rural Jamaica. It’s like a tribute to where I grew up. I practice by using the movement of Surrealism and, at times, Magic Realism by juxtaposing objects with the human figure. You can connect through Instagram Direct Messaging or my Gmail if you are interested. Also, a few pieces are available at Frame Art Gallery in Kingston, Jamaica.

5. What’s one piece of advice you would give to young and upcoming artists?

Most times, your greatest enemy is yourself. If you remember that, you will be unstoppable. Connect with Ankara here!