Group shows share passion
GROUP exhibitions can generate a particular dynamic that draws on the shared passion of exploring a certain medium, technique, or artistic discipline.
This is especially true of two local and regional exhibitions which champion ceramics and textiles respectively.
These functional disciplines are two of the oldest human inventions contributing to survival through purveying sustenance, and giving warmth and protection.
Over centuries they have extended beyond basic function to embrace sculptural properties, decoration, and embellishment in the pursuit of artistic expression.
The Arts Gallery at the University of Southern Queensland is presenting “Ceramics A229: An exhibition of Ceramic Studio Alumni.”
The body of work, curated by ceramics lecturer Alexis Tacey, has been thoughtfully selected to emphasise the versatility of the clay body through distinctive interpretations by artists who began their careers as students in the University’s ceramics studio.
Dan Elborne’s work memorialises events whether of a personal nature or in a broader, historical sense. The aesthetics of function and form are addressed in Alexis Tacey’s classical Bernard Leach-like platters and in the bowls by Amber Louise.
The rhythms and patterns in nature are translated in different statements by Carolyn Drought-Leblang and Ursula De Kretser.
Humour and decoration find expression in works by Virginia Jones, Stephen Baxter, and Peta Berghofer.
Colour adds drama to the vases and bowls with wire and wood handles by Maria Berry and visual interest to the bowls by Sue Brown.
Architectural detail gives emphasis and focus to the porcelain paper clay panel by Daniel Qualischefski. Traditional elegance and contemplative grace are intrinsic to the vessels by Anthony Brink and Bill Powell. The exhibition continues until May 9.
The Lockyer Valley Art Gallery in Gatton is hosting “Fabric, Thread, and Stitch” an exhibition by members of Gatton Quilters Inc.
This lively group began in 1983 and has grown from an initial membership of five to a cohort of over thirty enthusiastic members.
While promoting the craft skills of appliqué, embroidery, patchwork, and quilting through its regular meetings and various workshops, this group is also about community based social networking.
The fun, enjoyment, and camaraderie the group shares are a tangible presence in the exhibition. There are narrative pieces, and landscape works that address environmental issues.
There are abstract patterns and traditional quilt formats. The monthly challenge projects have produced particularly impressive results with the stitched portraits and the collaborative Rainbow of Colours, a vibrant wall of squares in different styles that create a radiant spectrum.
Gallery 107 in Dalby is currently showing the exhibition The Range Artists Collection.
The Range Artists Group comprises artists from Toowoomba and its environs who meet regularly to paint, discuss art, and generally create a supportive environment in which to work.
The exhibition reflects the diverse interests and skill levels of the participating artists.