Impressions of the ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center and Its Sponsored Studio Tour Feb. 2017

[George Lewter]

In February I heard about a major ceramic studio tour in Phoenix AZ, and decided to make an overnight trip to visit the studios and to take in the ASU Ceramic Research Center Museum, with what is widely recognized as the best collection of ceramic art, from the 1950s through the present, in the United States. I was amazed by the variety and quality of the pieces on display. Photography was allowed, so I took photos of many pieces, though some were obscured by shooting through glass. Included here is a sample of the work that was out on the museum floor.

I missed the artist's name for the bomb teapots. Sandy Blaine did the vases above and is currently active in Phoenix, firing electrically to cone 6. Katheryn Sins, also from the Phoenix area does many seed pod type forms. Robert Arneson created a massive number of ceramic sculptures in the mid-late 20th century, many of them being self portraits/caricatures.

I did not record artist names for the rest of the works shown in this section, as they were listed in books that were a little hard to follow.

At the same time that I saw the above works from the museum's collection, there was a special show of contemporary Chinese ceramic art that was exquisite. The artists were brought over from China for the opening, and many gifted their pieces to the museum. Following are a few tasty bits of that show.

The wide porcelain vase with incised leaf patterning and the beautifully painted glaze sections was a favorite. It was about 14 inches in diameter.

Don't miss this museum if you find yourself in Phoenix.

Their Associated Studio Tour Event Was Great!

On top of the active studios that were open, each with several ceramic artists present, there were many demonstrations, and beautiful items for sale.   

https://asuartmuseum.asu.edu/programs-and-events/ceramics-programs/....  

Websites for several of the participants:

• Patricia Sannit
• Halldor Hjalmarson
• Nicholas Bernard
• Tiffany C. Bailey
• Sandy Blaine
• Katheryn Sins

Our new member Jon Higuchi demonstrated throwing large, bulbous forms.

[Erik Evans]

Amen, brother.  Very thoughtful.  

[George Lewter]

Much as the works of master artists provide inspiration, they can also inject a level of intimidation into our psyche. What am I doing? I am not this good. Why do I bother?

The act of creativity is its own reward. It is not an act of competition. The satisfaction comes from within, as a kind of meditation. Van Gogh did not consciously set about to create "world class" paintings, rather he was channeling a deep urge to communicate his compelling inner vision. A simple teacup may come from as deep within as high conceptual sculpture, and it can easily be a purer expression.

Let your inner artist out, and don't worry.