Still - Tara Shackell

Could it be hewn from stone? What critical differences mark Tara Shackell's work in comparison to the many vessels being made in Melbourne using matt glazes over iron bearing clay?

Shackell acknowledges the primary referent of these glazes: the texture and colouring of stone. To reflect the vagaries of nature found in basalt, marble or slate, Shackell has created a nuanced palette of colouring. Catching my eye is the subtle rose quartz that blooms across the cylinder in the first image. 

Another point of difference is Shackell's nod to historic and universal vessel forms. A cylinder, bowl or a fluted bottle securely reside in this makers craft. Form is important to Shackell and she entitles her work with descriptors of what you see. Titles include 'Flared rim vase, deep pink' and 'Tall curved rim vase, iron grey'

I imagine, Gwyn Hanssen Pigott looking down and giving a wink of praise at Shackell's careful attention to the formal issues required in small grouping and in the larger nine piece panorama. Height, colour, lightness, darkness, opening & foot are in 'still' harmony. 

6-28 May 2017

Mr Kitly, Brunswick

mrkitly.com.au

Jane Sawyer: Rain Shadows

It's a pleasure to watch the trajectory of a maker who continues to surprise and inspire. Jane responds to the important issue of climate change and our human need to address the collection, storage and consumption of water. 

Jane's fluid technique of throwing, altering and slip application reflects the qualities of captured water and her fingertips apply slip in rainy-streaks and splashes. 

Excitingly, Jane has also moved 'off' the vessel (bucket & watering can) to the shadow cast by these water carriers. Clay silhouette's become cloud forms, sitting on the wall like a brooding storm on the horizon.

Expanding the phenomenon from which this exhibition takes it's name (1), the shadow becomes a surface on which Jane let's loose with gestural slip and sgraffitto, 'drawing in' the object of her attention. These marks are wonderfully confident and expressive. I suspect years of drawing alongside many other accomplishments!

 

(1) 

Rain Shadow explanation from Jane Sawyer's exhibition brochure  

A rain shadow is a dry area on the leeward side of tha mountainous area (away  from the wind). The mountains block the passage of rainproducing weather systems and cast a "shadow" of dryness behind them.  

tacit contemporary art 

312 Johnston Street, Abbotsford

www.tacitart.com.au

Accompanied by text by poet and writer Carolyn Leach-Paholski.

30 November - 18 December 2016

 

The Cloud Gatherer, 2016 red eathenware

Rainmakers, 2016 red earthenware