A Group Show Curated by Richard Rowland
The Cannon Beach Gallery will be hosting an invitational group show, Clay and Fire: the Alchemy of the Potter. The exhibit is a celebration of the art of the Anagama Kiln curated by Astoria artist, Richard Rowland who is a pioneer of the ancient wood-firing process in Oregon.
At its heart, the Clay and Fire exhibit features a community of artists who have worked together over the years in the communal firing process of the Anagama Kiln. There are many connections interwoven between artists Jan Shield, Stan Gibson, Brad Mildrexler, Ken Pincus, David Campiche and Richard Rowland.
“In the art of earth and fire the potters are true alchemists. They shift the properties of the elements and reassemble their chosen materials into allegory or form. They build simple ovens to cook and bring fire to their work. They collect rocks and oxides to put texture and color into the mix,” Rowland explained about the show.
“I have selected these artists to exhibit their work, not only because of their skillful abilities to make work, but also for their long and passionate commitment to the visual arts. Each Artist has developed their own unique method of working bringing their own ideology and ethos to their creations…decades of making art have earned them the title of Contemporary Alchemists,” Rowland further explained.
As a part of Cannon Beach’s Spring Unveiling Weekend, May 3-5, 2013, the Clay and Fire exhibit will be a focal point of regional talent.