Functional clay artists to be featured in Wilson Gallery

Huntington, Ind.-Pieces created by functional clay artists will be featured in "The New Aesthetics of Ceramics," an exhibit in Huntington University's Robert E. Wilson Gallery.

"Their work challenges the established aesthetic ideals of the ceramics field," said Rebecca Coffman, director of the Wilson Gallery.

The display will showcase 30 emerging and nationally known potters from 19 states. Artist, teacher and gallery owner Charlie Cummings will curate the exhibit, which will run from Jan. 30 through Feb. 28.

An artists' reception will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 2.

"Over the past 10 years, I have noticed more and more potters breaking from making traditional English and Japanese inspired forms," Cummings said. "They have started making pots that speak of modern life, customs and aesthetics. This exhibition focuses on 30 of these artists."

A wide range of forms and functions will be represented in the show from bowls to teapots, cups to vases, and many other forms.

"Clay vessels address the formal concerns of sculpture and other three-dimensional art forms, but they also serve as containers," Cummings said. "Function adds another dimension to the art viewing experience. For example, we all know cups are used for drinking. Beyond that basic understanding, the various forms cups embody and uses they imply communicate a wealth of information to the viewer and user. Compare a fine china tea cup to a Japanese inspired tea bowl. Both are made for drinking tea, but both imply a quite different occasion and experience for the user."

The Wilson Gallery is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., before and after all Merillat Centre for the Arts performances, and by appointment. For further information, contact Rebecca Coffman at (260) 359-4272 or rcoffman@huntington.edu.

Featured artists include the following: