There is a recurring motif in our recent cylindrical forms and jug forms: the grille, and with our forthcoming exhibition at Snug Gallery I wanted to share some thoughts on this motif.
Initially, our Cylindrical Forms had two contrasting elements: top and bottom which met at a point usually below the middle of the cylinder; it was tempting to interpret this point as the “horizon” and therefore the top element as sky and the bottom element as land (or sea).
Then a third contrasting element arrived – initially in the form of a circle – and the circle seemed like a subject to punctuate and inhabit the landscape. The circle had stability and beautiful purity; the universality of the sun or moon.
Now the Cylindrical Forms have become Jug Forms. They are taller and therefore seem to require an elongated motif. The lipped form suggests containing and pouring a liquid. The grille motif is often inclined, de-stabilised with the idea of pouring.
The grille is a development of the label motif, which is the outline of a rectangle with rounded corners. The grille has the same outline but is partially filled-in with evenly spaced, parallel lines, giving it a mechanical, solid but transparent quality. Its role is to interact with the other two (upper and lower) elements.
I realise that I have attributed qualities to the three elements which have made them more meaningful to me. I see the upper part as fairly inert and neutral (gas); the lower element as (liquid) random, exciting and dangerous and the grille as (solid) order and control.
Different forms provide a variety of contexts for the grille: sometimes the grille struggles to exist and sometimes it is strong and buoyant. It is the relationships between the elements that animate the forms.
I like the way the inclined grille invites you to straighten it up in the very act of pouring.
Thank you Penny! I was thinking about things like stability / instability; containment / spillage… glad you like. xT
Hi,
Your blog is great! I find it so interesting to read your thoughts about your work, and to understand a little of your creative process – especially how you navigate the relationship between surface decoration and the form. I have just begun an year’s apprenticeship working in ceramics with almost no experience, having previously studied fine art, and I am finding your blog a real source of inspiration 🙂 So thank you for writing it!