The intent of the thesis is twofold: interpretive and documentary. Volume 1 focuses on the work John Clark considered to be his mature oeuvre. The general structure is chronological, with the first three chapters devoted to formative influences, and a further chapter to what Clark had to say about meaning in his own work and that of others. The remaining four chapters offer an interpretation of the mature paintings in terms of two concepts: trasformation and the void. Annotated bibliographies and exhibition lists are included. The catalogue raisonne, volume 2, is an ongoing project to provide as complete a chronological record of Clark's known works as is possible: paintings, drawings (including working studies), prints, and reporduction histories are included. Appendices record missing and destroyed works, a bibliography of Clark's personal library, transcripts of three interviews and a lecture. / 29 cm.