Wednesday, February 28, 2024
PHOTO: Michael Rose
Ceramic artists tend to have a more communal sensibility than many of their fellow artists. While artists in other media tend to work solo in separate studios, ceramists more often must band together to share wheels and kilns. At the Jamestown Center for the Arts, a current exhibit showcases the energetic spirit of connectedness that comes with making ceramics.
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On view through March 16, Centering: Clay and Community features a collection of ceramic works by artists who have participated in JAC’s Ceramic Artist-in-Residence Program (CARP). Exhibitors include David Beretta, Ellen Bulger, Rosemary Burns, Michael Cole, Karen Dolmanist, Joanna Grocott, Samira Haki, Andrew Hunter, Shannon Kennelly, Susan Maillux, Kelly McDermott, Becky Olien, Tori Reiff, Nicholas Shapin, Diane Terry, Michelle Umbenhauer and Alexi Sarah Widoff. It was co-curated by John Baylor and Melinda Catherine Frederick.
PHOTO: Michael Rose
The diversity of the exhibition shows what can be done with clay. From works that are practical and usable to objects that are purely sculptural, the range of forms is exciting. Some standouts include abstract shapes by Rosemary Burns and beautifully illustrated bowls by Susan Mailloux. Ceramic animals by Becky Olien pair well with a writhing array of tentacles by Samira Haki. Andrew Hunter and Karen Dolmanist exhibit works of ambitious scale. The storefront has a lot to see.
When asked what makes the ceramics community at JAC special, JAC Co-Curator and Director of Education Melinda Catherine Frederick says, “The ceramics community at JAC became what it is today in response to the need to provide more access to the Ceramics Studio. Rather than clinging to a workspace to meet their own artistic needs alone, participants in the Ceramic Artist Residency Program were asked to let go, be generous, and put the greater good above self.”
Frederick continues, “This act of personal sacrifice and resilience strengthened the bonds between the students and the artists using the space. This has led to a community of mutual support, respect and trust that is truly special and that informs the work of each participating artist in countless ways.”
Some of the strongest objects on view are vibrant and colorful pieces by Tory Reiff. With high texture and bright tones, Reiff ceramics are eye-catching and instantly recognisable. Reiff’s ceramic work can be found elsewhere in Rhode Island, and she will be in a group show at Wakefield’s Hera Gallery in March.
PHOTO: Michael Rose
For Reiff, the CARP program at JAC was impactful. She explains, “Joining the CARP program marked a turning point in my artistic practice. Under the visionary leadership of Melinda and John, CARP provided a supportive environment for me to develop and grow, allowing me to delve deeper into my craft through focused studio time, collaborative exchanges and critiques. This environment has facilitated my artistic growth and I am so grateful for the experience and the many amazing people I have met in the studio – it is a special place.”
When asked what it means to her to participate in the CARP exhibit, Reiff enthuses, saying, “Exhibiting my work in the very space where it was created is a satisfying experience. Opening the doors to the community, inviting them to experience the diverse and exciting work emerging from our small studio, is akin to sharing a well-kept secret. It is an honor to be a part of such a dynamic community of artists.”
The ceramics in this strong show are displayed in galleries that are adjacent to the organization’s clay facilities. It offers viewers the unique chance to see studio and artwork side by side.
PHOTO: Michael Rose
When asked what makes this exhibit stand out, co-curator John Baylor, owner of Sale Pond Pottery, says, “What makes this show special to me is that it’s not just a collection of diverse pottery, but a celebration of community. Ceramics is having its moment in our larger culture, but to see a studio bring people together is special. Our studio members are great resources for each other to help each other with technical or aesthetic issues, but the real story is in the friendships that are formed. Community studios play a vital role in bringing people together.”
The spirit behind the JAC Pottery Show will make viewers want to get their hands on some clay and join in the making. It should also be an inspiration to other artists to step out of their comfort zones and private studios to engage in conversation and camaraderie.
Centering: Clay and Community is on view at the Jamestown Arts Center through March 16, 2024. The JAC is located at 18 Valley Street in Jamestown and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., or other hours with arrangement. Learn more and plan your visit at www.jamestownartcenter.org.
Michael Rose is a multi-talented fine art professional based in Southern New England. Since 2014, he has served as Gallery Manager at the historic Providence Art Club, one of the oldest arts organizations in the country. Through his current freelance work, he advises collectors and artists, provides appraisal services, teaches and executes curatorial projects.
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