North Adams, MA - Beginning next Thursday, December 4, MCLA Gallery 51 presents "All Fired Up," an exhibition of contemporary ceramics.
Curated by local ceramic artist Diane Sullivan, "All Fired Up" will feature a range of both functional and sculptural work from nine regional and national ceramicists.
An opening reception will be held on Thursday, December 4, 5-7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
All four potters in the show, Ellen Grenadier, Tiffany Hilton, Aysha Peltz and Todd Wahlstrom, are inspired by the natural world which is reflected in both bold and subtle surfaces of their work. Presented are a variety of handmade vases, cups, bowls and platters, which delicately balance perfect function and the intuitive choice of the right glaze.
" What I like most is making artful pottery that will be used every day-objects that bring the intimacy of the handmade into people's homes and that encourage us to stop and enjoy the experience of dining," said Ellen Grenadier
Sculptural work is represented in the exhibition both on the wall and on pedestals. Each of these artists has a distinct way of forming and finishing their pieces. Heather Allen-Swarttouw's boat pod pieces appear to have an ancient surface, whereas Shannon Donovan creates vibrantly colored wallflowers from hubcaps and dollies cast in porcelain. Katherine Casey's porcelain tiles have the imprint of nature and residual images which the viewer can project his or her own story into, and the small figural earthenware sculptures of Diane Sullivan tell a story of their own. Finally, Colleen Williams' intriguing and stunningly patterned figural vases are alive with rhythm and attitude.
"This exhibition is not only a great opportunity to view a range of beautiful works by nine very talented ceramicists, but also chance to pick up some unique holiday gifts which will not only give delight to the recipient," said Diane Sullivan, "but help support these artists and the MCLA gallery."
"All Fired Up" runs through January 25, 2009.
MCLA Gallery 51 is at 51 Main St. in North Adams and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 413-664-8718, or go to www.mcla.edu/Gallery51 .
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