Alexia Harvey
Galston High School
MYTH
Ceramics
Clay, Paperclips/metal in clay
Throughout my life I have felt a close affinity with the mythologies of China, Scandinavia and Scotland for their magical escapism and folklore teachings. Myth is a body of work born from my curiosity about and connection with the different myths of these ancient cultures. During times of turmoil or moments of adversity I have always felt the comfort of mythology. It provides a retreat in its whimsical and at times brutal legends from the ages. Using traditional hand-building techniques, my work explores the hardships, boundaries and restrictions that arise when creating such minute details in such a precarious medium.
My artmaking practice has been influenced by the study and interpretation of the following artists: Johnson Tsang, A Painful Pot; Grayson Perry.
Marker's Commentary
Myth consists of three ceramic vessels. The three traditionally shaped vessels are adorned by creatures connected to myths and legends suggesting Chinese and Scandinavian cultures. The relationship of subject matter to vessel imply strength, power and perhaps guardianship of the vessel. The intricate detailing of the animal and architectural features are reminiscent of Ancient traditional conventions and belief structures. The high relief sculptural vases have been hand built using a complex combination of techniques. The vessels are coil built. The architectural and animal features have been constructed using a range of techniques, including press moulding, slab construction, stamping, pinching and modelling. The vessels have a series of organically shaped slab platforms, jutting out and arranged at various heights on the vessel. The platforms entwine conventions of ancient landscapes into this visually fascinating work.
The palette used is monochromatic, combining rich brown umber, in ceramic oxide form (perhaps manganese oxide), and symbolic red connecting back to conventional cultural ties. The earthy, rustic qualities of the clay in connection with the dominant and skilful use of oxide, guides the audience to question the historical context, location and the story of provenance of these three vessels. The works present to the audience as perhaps being unearthed. This body of work reveals a deep understanding of traditional ceramic technique and the expressive nature of clay to convey conceptual intention. The body of work clearly shows a high level of technical prowess and conceptual inventiveness.