October 2013
If you have read this blog before then you will know that
diversity and quality are important elements in the gallery’s ceramic
programme. We are featuring the work of three very different ceramicists this
month. Two of them are previous Graduate Show winners and the third has become
an internationally established artist since she showed here first in 2006.
Emma Rodgers may now
be familiar in Paris and New York; however we value the long held relationship
with this exceptional ceramic sculptress. Some may remember the life-sized
bronze ballerina that graced our courtyard some years ago and this time we have
a bronze falcon
which has already made an impact on the few who have seen it.
Emma has the ability to capture the essence of whatever animal she portrays and
this time we have three of her wall mounted running hares, a peacock and a
bull. This work needs no signature - Emma’s signature is her unique approach to
her subjects and the spirit of life which they embrace. I could say more, but that would be no
substitute for seeing them for yourself in the gallery or on line.
Chris Taylor has
had work at Bevere since he won the Graduate show award two years ago. His
ability to embrace the contemporary with traditional decorative approaches has
had a surprisingly wide appeal across all ages and tastes. I say surprisingly,
because it is something that is difficult to achieve.
I know from a recent conversation with him that his work will not stand still and he already sees this current series ending soon with the emergence of new pieces – watch this space. I hope that Bevere will be amongst the first to show them. In the meantime enjoy another great group of pots from this exciting and insightful potter.
I know from a recent conversation with him that his work will not stand still and he already sees this current series ending soon with the emergence of new pieces – watch this space. I hope that Bevere will be amongst the first to show them. In the meantime enjoy another great group of pots from this exciting and insightful potter.
If these featured makers were not enough, we also have new
bodies of work from Matt Horne whose
rich crystalline glazes are applied to beautifully thrown vessels; two indoor
pieces from Kathy Shadwell whose
larger work was in the Gallery Outside
in the summer and a new name to Bevere - Rob
Fountain - whose original three dimensional landscapes are well worth a
view.
We believe that contrast and diversity in ceramics
contributes to the good feelings that so many visitors have about Bevere Gallery. We are able to show month on month that the best of ceramics can add
so much pleasure to everyday living. I know from my personal experience that the
desire to own is driven by that more than any other motivation.
Stuart Dickens