Handmade ceramics – both in functionality and as a form of creative expression, have seen a dramatic rise in popularity. It therefore comes as no surprise that this art form has since post-pandemic times taken center stage in the global art market. The ‘act of potting’ seems to have become a sought-after pastime – the tactile, mindful interaction between earth and individual quickly becoming an antidote to an onslaught of digital weariness. Ironically, it is this same online landscape that has skyrocketed its collectability and appeal.
Rust-en-Vrede Gallery + Clay Museum in Durbanville has been dedicated to preserving our clay heritage since 1986. With ceramics claiming its space in the contemporary y art scene, the institution has set its sights on the future by initiating the first South African Clay Awards (earlier this year). The goal with the initiative is two-fold: firstly, in honouring the individuals who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of ceramic excellence, and secondly, to identify emerging creatives who might become the future tastemakers and trendsetters within the ceramic community. Ten local and international selectors – all experts in the field of ceramics – have taken up the challenge to identify and award the 40 pieces they deem best.
The South African Clay Awards selectors are:
Andile Dyalvane (South Africa), André Hess (UK/South Africa), Digby Hoets (South Africa), Dr. Elizabeth Perrill (USA), Guangzhen Zhou (China), Janet DeBoos (Australia), Prof. Magdalene Odundo (UK/Kenya), Olivia Barrell (South Africa), Dr. Ronnie Watt (Canada/South Africa) and Stanis Mbwanga (Democratic Republic of Congo).
Artists working in clay can submit their entries online between 1 and 18 August 2024. The exhibition, showcasing the 40 selected works will be open to the public from 2 November until 6 December 2024. During this time ceramic enthusiasts can also expect pop up markets, raku firing demonstrations, workshops, talks and exhibition walkabouts at the Rust-en-Vrede Gallery in Durbanville.
The South African Clay Awards is of course just the proverbial cherry on the cake, as there are several exciting clay-centric exhibitions and events taking place throughout the year. Some highlights include a David Walters retrospective exhibition, a rare opportunity to see and acquire a large collection of ceramics by the late Ian Glenny in the public domain, CUBE exhibitions by Nic Sithole, Sarah Walters, Catherine Brennon and Adéle Sherlock, as well as solo exhibitions in the main gallery by ceramicists Annelie Janse van Rensburg, Martin Swart and Antoinette du Plessis.
Ceramics may not always have been as central in the mainstream as now, but it has consistently contributed significantly to the art historical narrative. And as the societal gaze slowly shifts away from mass production in search of authenticity and towards an acute awareness of an object’s origins, this highly versatile art form is sure to grow from strength to strength.
Illustrated Ceramic Plate by Annelie Janse van Rensburg | Abundance – Opening 6 April 2024
Jo Roets | Nest (on white), Self Drying Natural Stone Clay, 22 x 22cm | Elegie – Opening 18 May 2024
Marbled Lidded Vessels by Garth Meyer – CUBE Exhibition Opening on 6 April 2024
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South African Clay Awards Rules and Regulations: www.rust-en-vrede.com/clayawards/
Rust-en-Vrede Gallery + Clay Museum
068 457 8589 / gallery@rust-en-vrede.com
www.Rust-en-Vrede.com
What to expect in April and May:
6 April ’24
Ian Glenny (1952-2023): The Life and Legacy of a Studio Potter – Talk by Dr. Ronnie Watt. Booking essential.
6 April – 6 June ‘24
Ian Glenny: The Life and Legacy of a Studio Potter – Exhibition in the Clay Museum
6 April – 11 May ‘24
The CUBE: Lidded – An exhibition of lidded ceramics by Garth Meyer
Abundance: Solo Exhibition by Annelie Janse van Rensburg
18 May – 22 June ‘24
Elegie: Collaborative exhibition between Marike Kleynscheldt and Jo Roets featuring paintings, embroidery and sculptural works made with air drying clay.
18 May – 3 Aug ‘24
The CUBE: An exhibition of small vessels and animal sculptures by Nic Sithole