Once considered folksy and functional, ceramic vessels get a fresh look in this exhibit at the Heide Museum of Modern Art. A dozen local and international artists showcase their contemporary approaches to an ancient art form, through original techniques and a variety of aesthetic styles.
Each artist will display their vessels in groups, following the still-life tradition of the late Australian potter Gwyn Hanssen Pigott, who was considered one of the world’s leading contemporary ceramicists. Pigott’s work will be included in the show alongside five other Australian artists – including Simone Fraser and Nicolette Johnson – as well as King Houndekpinkou from France, Kang Hyo Lee from Korea, American Kathy Butterly and others.
“Acknowledging the increased interest in ceramics across the art world, this exhibition provides a chance to see some of the most inventive practitioners at work today from across the globe alongside their Australian peers,” says co-curator Glenn Barkley.
The show is accompanied by several events, including an opening talk by Barkley and museum artistic director Lesley Harding, plus a series of hands-on workshops with the artists including the UK’s Alison Britton and Australian Kirsten Coehlo. It’s a great opportunity to see some of the world’s leading ceramic artists as they reimagine and explore the relationship between form, function and beauty.