THE CURATOR’S VIEW – March 2014

An EXHIBITION OF THE LIFE OF ERIC JAMES MELLON- AN ARTIST POTTER-

This tribute is a celebration of a fine artist and a good friend of Bevere Gallery.

It is still difficult to believe that one of the original voices of ceramic art is no longer with us. Eric James Mellon died on January 14^th and to commemorate his life we are holding a small exhibition of his ceramics and prints. This is all we have available at the present time but we hope to be able to show a larger body of work later in the year. He was a good friend and will be long remembered for his innovation, unfailing creativity and good humour.

I am delighted that we are showing the work of Lowri Davies

 for the first time as a featured maker. Her distinctive work brings together contemporary and traditional influences. Lowri’s Welsh roots are at the heart of her craft. She is aware of the Welsh heritage that is Nantgawr and Swansea potteries as well as bringing her skilful draughtsmanship to her decoration. Her work is guaranteed to raise a smile - a ceramic harbinger of spring no less!

Graham Williamson  brings high level craft skills to functional ware and this is evident in his latest collection to be shown at Bevere. The use of unusual colour combinations combined with that tactile quality we associate with well-designed pots will please many of our visitors.

Alex McCarthy is one of a number of Graduate Show alumni whom we have continued to represent. He is showing a new body of work

which demonstrates how talented makers mature and develop over time. The pieces are of consistent high quality and the use of lustre trickles, as he calls them; add a luxurious feel to each vessel.

As always, we try to bring diversity and contrast to the gallery. Enjoy.

Stuart Dickens - Ceramic Curator