A graduate of the California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, Clausen makes his home in the Oakland area. Clausen's approach to the canvas is athletic, but his style varies from energetic to calm. Most of his work is abstract-expressionistic. He lets the paint itself inspire him and enjoys "sculpting" the color masses. Clausen strongly encourages art viewers to rely on their own artistic judgment and convictions, and less on the opinion of art "experts." He seldom does self-promotion or competitive juried shows and sees himself as very independent.