A Language of Clay

A Language of Clay is a group show presenting the work of ceramic artists Justine Allison, Anne Gibbs, Kate Haywood, Lisa Krigel, Ingrid Murphy and Zoe Preece. Each of the artists approach the qualities of clay from varying perspectives and with differing intentions. That the practices of these six artists are richly diverse is intentional. United by a tenacious and considered approach, their works illustrate a rich spectrum of contemporary ceramic practice.

Whether motivated by function, form, social interaction or abstract concept, all the artists undertake their practices with a keen sense of materiality. There are many familiar objects and references in the show, some repurposed or reinterpreted. Commonplace objects that we might use all the time are celebrated, everyday moments are tenderly captured in ceramic form, and there are pieces that make connections across time. The exhibition includes bowls for daily use, spoons fixed in motion and streetwise dogs with a sense of home. We hope there will be aspects to engage everyone.

This exhibition develops a popular, touring initiative known as The Language of Clay; managed by Mission Gallery and in partnership with Ruthin Craft Centre, supported by Arts Council of Wales and curated by Ceri Jones.