There is something quite extraordinary about the ability to take an amorphous clump of soggy clay or a clot of molten sand, from the earth, and fashion it into an object that is not only practical but aesthetically beautiful. It's more then craftsmanship or talent, it's magic and the works seen here by Lyne Graham reveal how she owns the power. Her perfectly formed ceramic works and glass platters are a joy to view.
I admit to preferring the large, thrown urns to the slumped glass as there is a definitive sense of ancient power and majesty to them. The shapes are faultless while the glazes enhance their sense of elegance and strength. I particularly like the large, grey crackle glazed, bell-shaped lidded pot. It seemed to be ancient yet contemporary, delicate yet strong, decorative yet functional all at once. Then I fell in love with the small lidded tri-pod pot wearing the same glaze placed nearby. Two very different shapes and sizes yet each had a equal sense of presence and both are ideally formed.
Much appreciated are the large urns wearing copper red glazes and an added swirl of pleated clay that runs from the base to the shoulder of the form. And how some of the boldest pots and urns seem to grow up in power and strength from the base yet wear the most delicate of lids. This is best articulated in the works that wear a deep blue black glaze.
Graham's bold and beautiful clay work is complimented by the slumped glass platters and plates that are decorated with diochroic strips. The sheen of the coloured glass equals that of the glazes causing all the objects to shimmer. Then, for a change of texture without losing a sense of shine, the artist offers scarves that have been beautifully embellished with leaves, flowers and butterflies composed of delicate needle work and beads.
If you like works of clay and/or glass that have been perfectly thrown and enhanced by a highly talented artist then do have a look at this show. And while you're there, check out the other rooms and delight in the variety of work by other members of the group.