Clarkemargarete lived her entire 100th year surrounded by men. With an enthusiastic personality that won over children, she illustrated numerous books including the popular “Egg” picture books series as well as several easy reader novels and an irreverent collection of horror tales for reluctant readers.

Her facility as both a painter and draftsperson was on full display through her works, which range from portraits to landscapes. This exhibition traced her evolution as an artist while exploring her varied interests and influences that helped form her style; immediate likenesses of family members demonstrated her skill as a sensitive portraitist while commissioned pieces also showcased William Orpen’s allegorical efforts as inspirations.

Narrative paintings play an integral part in her work, including allegories such as The Dressmaker and Bathtime at the Creche. One notable painting depicting Ophelia wearing black sitting in woodland settings stands out.

Her work reflects her strong interest in Irish history and culture, particularly women and the cultural milieu during that era. A recurring motif in her paintings is the crow, symbolic of death and resurrection; various mythological scenes such as the Nativity or Lazarus’ raising are depicted; other attempts such as her version of Samson and Delilah prove less successful.