The Australian Ceramics Association will shine a spotlight on the diverse practice of Australian artists working today in clay, including those from regional areas.
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Halls Gap's Judy Hilbig and Katy Mitchell as well as Stawell's Amelia Kingston will be three of hundreds of potters and ceramic artists around the country who will open their studios to the public.
The seventh annual Australian Ceramics Open Studios event will be on August 17-18.
Ms Hilbig is an experienced potter and teacher who has been developing functional and creative ceramics in Halls Gap for over thirty years. With knowledge and skills from short courses, tertiary studies and mentoring, Ms Hilbig has displayed and sold works at local exhibitions and galleries, and helped others realise their creative potential with clay.
Raised on the Isle of Man, Ms Mitchell makes functional pots intended to be used and embraced in daily life. Her wheel-thrown forms are illustrated with delicate and colourful designs inspired by the beauty (and oddity) of the environment in which she finds herself, be that her island home or adopted homeland of Australia. Ms Mitchell moved to Halls Gap in March 2018, having trained and worked as potter on the Gold Coast between 2008 and 2013.
The Australian Ceramics Association president Cathy Franzi said the national event was an inspiring opportunity for the broader community to step inside the creative spaces of contemporary potters and ceramicists.
"It's a chance to experience the wonders of this luscious material and the skilled artisans who develop their unique voice within this ancient practice," she said.
"The ceramic process is a particularly fascinating one, starting with shaping plastic clay into form, whether that is a cup to drink from or a contemporary sculpture.
"You might see clay turned into vessels on the potter's wheel or an artist decorating a ceramic surface with intricate imagery before the piece is fired in a kiln. The weekend will offer the visitor a rare glimpse into the spaces where creativity occurs."
The general public can unleash their inner artist and participate in workshops, see demonstrations, listen to artist talks, and purchase original ceramics from potters on Saturday and Sunday, August 17-18, from 10am - 4pm.
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