Celebration 2007

the use of ceramics in the commemoration of important events

“This exhibition provides an opportunity for ceramic object makers to present a body of work that they would use to commemorate a significant life event. Jewellery is so frequently used to signify occasions and retain memories, engagement and wedding rings being a commonly recognisable example of this. Historically, pots also have carried this role, with early Greek ‘Atticware’, English slipware ‘Chargers’ and fine dinnerware (both handmade and industrial) perhaps less commonly recognised, but examples nonetheless.

Contemporary life tends to be speeding quickly by. As manufacturing and skills development move steadily offshore, so the ability to directly make objects for particular individuals and their specific requirements leaches from our society. The core of creativity, ingenuity and invention is in danger of just drifting away. Large industries are deeply attracted by low costs and like an ocean liner are difficult to turn. It is the studio artists who still retain full possession of flexibility of innovation and skill, keeping it fully within the centre of our lives. This exhibition offers an occasion to recall and rejoice in this ownership.

The exhibition offers a fairly open brief – to make an object or group of objects that would be used in the celebration of an important life event. Imagine that you are working to commission. This is an opportunity to make a very special and important item / items to commemorate an event of your choice. Functional, non-functional and installation work in any ceramic medium will be considered.
Please send a brief outline of research proposal, 3 slides of recent work, a CV and 2 working drawings or photo documentation.” Prue Venables

Exhibition Dates: 3 August – 2 September 2007
 
Exhibition Opening: Friday 3 August, 2007, 6 – 8pm
by Alan Saunders presenter of ‘By Design’ ABC Radio National