Covid-19 update: The gallery and shop on Great Russell Street is currently closed however, you can still see the pieces in this exhibition and shop online – just scroll down. To be the first to hear when we will re-open join our mailing list on the homepage.
About Emotions of the Inorganic
“What are our emotions?” – a question often asked within scientific communities working within artificial intelligence and neuroscience.
How we decide what we like or dislike, deciding what is beautiful or ugly, has interested ceramic artist Akiko Hirai for many years. Finding biological or chemical reactions, environments and the physicality of objects all to be connected, in this collection she makes associations between physical phenomenons, for example the reactions that happen within her kiln, and her own personal emotional input and output.
Using variations of wood ash and a range of firing cycles to create surface effects on the pieces in this collection, Akiko has harnessed the raw materials and reduction firing process to form unique sculptural pieces in reactive combinations that appear to drip with layers of colour and texture.
“The origins of [clay] lie in the enduring rock beneath our feet. The processes of firing that a potter uses to complete their work replicate some of the monumental forces which create and erode the matter of the universe.”
“Sometimes I make simple useful things, on other occasions my work is less straightforward, challenging the user to negotiate with an unexpected pot to do an ordinary job.”
Ant & Di Edmonds’ present work has been developed over the past six years. All the pots are coiled by Ant and subsequently pinched, scraped and beaten into shape. The decoration is applied by hand – a full time occupation for Di – between coiling sessions for Ant. The monochromatic designs and abstract patterns are drawn and adapted from many sources including Pueblo Pottery of New Mexico. USA and 1960s Op Art. Each of this couples’ magnificent vessels are dazzling accomplishments embodying the culmination of skill, passion and time.
David Binns’ carved and glazed ceramic forms evolve through an intimate and intuitive engagement with clay, involving both accident and control. Whilst drawing (indirect) inspiration from colours and shapes found in the natural landscape. David’s practice is shaped by a deep respect of the fundamental principles of Japanese aesthetics.
Paul Wearing presents a body of work that showcases the recent developments in his approach to form and surface. Symmetrical Ellipses have evolved and are contrasted with the dynamic Tilt Ellipse.
As the close of another year approaches, we celebrate our wonderful CPA members with a seasonal showcase of their work. From functional to sculptural and everything in between, our annual group exhibition offers a carefully curated selection of work for all tastes and all budgets.