HALF ART
CHRIS THURMAN: Exhibition shows SA’s ceramic art not set in stone
The range of materials, methods, colours and forms at the Corobrik National Ceramics Biennale delightful and provocative, writes Chris Thurman
Ask a friend what he or she associates with the word "ceramics" and the answer is likely to be banal. Tiles. Bathroom plumbing. And "pottery"? That’s a hobby for the bored — although perhaps, for some, it conjures more sultry images of Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore in Ghost. Those who have a fleeting acquaintance with the visual arts scene in SA might think of the elaborate creations that have emerged from the kilns at Ardmore, or of someone such as Nesta Nala, who is celebrated for sustaining and expanding Zulu pottery traditions. Ceramists have something of a commercial advantage because the work they produce is often bought by well-to-do "design and décor" fundis who would be less likely to see themselves as art collectors. Generally, however, ceramics is something of a neglected cousin in the extended family of visual and plastic arts. Seen one pot, seen ’em all, right? Wrong, as visitors to the 2016 Corobrik National Ceramics Biennale (at University of Johannesburg Gallery, Kin...
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