Regular readers of this blog will
know that each month I try to ensure that the character of the gallery is
changed with the showing of work from our featured makers. We know that the
prospect of seeing new, perhaps previously unseen, makers as well as a changed
feel to the gallery appeals to our visitors and is also appreciated by our
exhibitors. This month is no exception; however due to a coming together of a
number of differing circumstances – some would say the normal ebb and flow of
life - the new work will not all
be ready to show at the beginning of the month. Apologies to those that visit
early – you may need to come and see us again later in the month, you will not
be disappointed!
One maker who will be with us
again by the first Saturday is Sun Kim.
She has shown with us before but not for some time. Her work is primarily for
daily use but her fine pieces, which display an elegance of design, the highest
craft skills and monochrome decoration, will enhance any table. I like this
work because it is simply about the vessel, its volume and line. I have
recently been rereading Sōetsu Yanagi’s ‘The Unknown Craftsman’ and was struck
by the exhortation to look at an object directly without interposing thoughts,
personal tastes and habits. This may seem rather philosophical, however, it
explains why sometimes we say - ‘I don’t normally like this kind of thing but .
. . ‘.It is about seeing directly without any external influence. It may be
difficult, but as an aspiration I have no doubt that we will begin to widen our
horizons and appreciate an object on its own terms. Sun’s work communicates so effectively - tell me
if you agree.
Matthew Chambers has exhibited with us a few times over the years
and every time we see show his work we are constantly asked how he makes his
extraordinary pieces which unfold like large peonies for us to see layer upon
delicate layer. Matthew’s work is like no other. He has developed a technique
which enables him to create objects which please the eye as well as challenge our
perceptions.
I have enormous admiration for Richard Godfrey, His work will be here later in July.
the man and the
potter. His fight against serious illness has been an inspiration.
Paradoxically perhaps, it has been a period during which he has experienced a
burst of extraordinary creative energy – which is saying something given that
he has been consistently creative during his several decades as a maker. I
believe he is now producing some of his best work ever. Let’s forget about the
craft/art debate, this is fine art from any standpoint. Each distinctive piece
demonstrates the range of his artistic imagination and the innovative
decorative techniques he uses to express his vision. You may think you know
Richard’s work, think again and be prepared for a delightful sensory
experience.
Finally, just a brief reminder about the third and final
show in The Gallery Outside – Art for Outdoors. There will be more information
on our website in a few days, suffice to say that on 12 July 2014 we have
exciting new work from Jenny Pickford,
Judith Hobbs , Peter Garrard, Amy Daniels and Neil Lossock.
Stuart Dickens
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