"CHRISTMAS FOCUS"

THE CURATOR’S VIEW – November/December 2014

We are fast approaching that time of year – I am reluctant to use the C word when as I write this it is not yet November - nevertheless we want to ensure that the gallery remains a vibrant and exciting showcase of some of the best in studio ceramics. I am particularly delighted that we are showing the work of Ruth King for the first time.

 On the face of it Ruth slab builds, shapes and alters clay to form her shapes of apparent simplicity. However, there is nothing simple about them at all. The shapes are almost a sideways glance at the conventional. They have presence and demand to be looked at more closely. I like these pots because they have such a distinct voice. Ruth’s way of visualising her vessels is unique and genuinely combines high level craft skills with a strong contemporary look. If you haven’t seen Ruth’s work before then be prepared for a pleasant surprise.

Clare Conrad has not shown with us for some time. Here again is a maker with a distinct look. The surface textures are remarkable -

redolent of earthen landscapes viewed from a satellite. The shapes of her vessels are simple to ensure that maximum exposure and emphasis is given to their tactile surfaces.

There was no eureka moment here, what we see is the product of an artist’s vision which has taken time to mature and realise.

Annabel Faraday

 is one of the most able practitioners of print on clay. The group of pieces, which we have this month, are some of the best I have seen.  The subtle use of colour, the choice of images and the spirit of place which she gives to each vessel is a joy. She will be showing again next year and we hope to have work from her which portrays the city of Worcester and environs with the same characteristics.

Ostinelli and Priest

are amongst the most talented of ceramic sculptors. The quality of the modelling is of the highest order and somehow they manage to capture the very essence of the animals which they represent. However it is more than just about modelling skills – what we see is humour and the ability to give personality to each piece. For me it is the eyes which are so expressive. People will have different perspectives on their work but for sure they cannot be ignored and we hope that visitors will be as stimulated by them as we were when we first opened the boxes and removed the wrapping. Sometimes it feels like C……..s even when it’s not.

We will also have new pieces from Matthew Blakely,
Christine Gittins and
 Richard Heeley

and who knows one or two more surprises before we get to Christmas – there I’ve said it.

Stuart Dickens 

THE GALLERY ALSO SUPPORTS WORK FROM OVER 
80 STUDIO POTTERS