Welcome to the Isolation Diaries, our now monthly round-up of the things that keep us creatively motivated. In each instalment for 2021, Clear will connect with friends, colleagues, and peers to explore their view of the world. This week, we’re starting with our very own Matthew McCarthy, Founder of Clear.

So far, events are back on in Victoria, and heading out—in a COVID-safe manner, of course—is the new staying in. This month we’re looking forward to ACMI reopening its doors, with new exhibitions, screenings, and talks in a brand new space. Street artist RONE is returning to his hometown of Geelong for a survey exhibition, and an epic two-month festival is kicking off at Sidney Myer. Globally, our favourite artists are continuing to unite and support the industry in iso-friendly ways, like Bicep’s second global live stream music festival—broadcast across 5 timezones on the 26 February. We’re still embracing a (now sometimes) work-from-home work culture, which means perfecting our stovetop espresso game (thanks to St.Ali!) Not at all equal in urgency, we’re studying up on How to Avoid a Climate Disaster, and Nic Cage is teaching us The History of Swear Words.

The travel industry has been stalled by the pandemic. If you could freely travel the world, where would you go?

In 2014, I travelled to France to follow the Tour De France. It was the first action-adventure holiday combining my passions of cycling, croissants, and cheese. The idea of chasing the Tour, watching cyclists fly past at 80km+ an hour through the Alps seems like a distant memory—but a fond one indeed. So, in short, send me to the sun in Avignon.

How do you structure your typical working day?

The Clear studio has transitioned to a ‘One-Three-One’ working week, where Mondays and Fridays are spent planning (internally) with the team, and (externally) with our clients. These two days are all about building momentum for the week ahead, ensuring we meet our schedules. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are designed to make the most of the studio space and in-studio collaboration. Staff and clients are encouraged to use the studio space in a manner that best suits them. Working from home has been a positive, where I have refined my espresso/latte skills and been home on-time for dinner with my family.

Which artist inspires you the most?

Ah, good question. I am fascinated by art at the moment and seem to be spending a good deal of time reading reviews and watching documentaries. Last week, I explored Josef Albers and the ‘Interaction of Colour’ and caught the 2018 documentary on Sidney Nolan. On Monday, I was reading about Juan Gris, and ‘An Art Revolution made with Scissors and Glue’ via the NYTimes. Next week, the team is off to experience the NGV Triennial. As for pure inspiration, Reko Rennie is perfect for this time.

Which musical artist is on high rotation at the moment?

I am going through a pretty hefty dose of Yacht Rock at the moment, starting with Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Peter Frampton, and Steely Dan. Please let me know of any upcoming DJing opportunities... and keep an eye out for ‘DJ Spinnaker’ hitting the AM airways shortly.

What are you reading and/or watching at the moment?

With everything happening in the world I recently took out a Washington Post subscription to compliment my NYTimes subscription. The NYTimes provides me with deep and thoughtful insights into politics, arts, and broader culture and expression you cannot help but find something you want to read and capture.


Images © The University Of Virginia / © Genevieve Naylor & Corbis via Getty Images / © Sidney Nolan Trust