Winter 2008/09 Exhibition
Kitamura Junko (b.1956)
Flare Vase
31.9 x 17.5 cm
Generosity in Clay: Modern Japanese Ceramics from the Natalie Fitz-Gerald Collection
November 25, 2008 – January 31, 2009
The Clark Center for Japanese Art & Culture is pleased to present a special exhibition of Japanese contemporary ceramics drawn from the extensive collection of Natalie Fitz-Gerald, a collector now residing in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This exhibition presents 54 modern works by 30 Japanese artists, representing a dialogue between past and present, and the evolution in thought and technique demonstrated in works of recent decades.
A fundamental characteristic of Japanese sensibility and art is the appreciation of two very different aesthetics: one restrained, subdued, found for example in tea ceremony and symbolized by the concept of wabi sabi that praises an imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete beauty; the other of bright color and exuberant expression. Both trends can be traced back to the Neolithic pottery of Japan, the oldest in the world, and culminates today in contemporary works.
The ceramics in this exhibition are produced by recognized and important artists. Some of them, like the master Kitaōji Rosanjin (1883-1959), chose to explore and rely on traditional forms and glazes. From there they could master tradition enough to develop their individual style. The Mingei or Folk Crafts movement, renewing the approach of the tea masters of the 16th century, praises the beauty of simple ceramics made for everyday use by anonymous craftsmen, yet is represented by two leading masters who attained the designation of Living National Treasures: Hamada Shōji (1894-1977) and Shimaoka Tatsuzō (1919-2007).
Miyashita Zenji (b.1939)
"Swaying in the Wind"
Glazed stoneware
33.8 x 26.7 x 14.7 cm
The difference between tradition and avant-garde in Japanese ceramics is not necessarily defined in terms of use of traditional technique or styles but whether works are vessel or non vessel forms. After the Second World War a trend emerged that deliberately refused to rely on tradition and to consider ceramics with a practical function. It turned towards clay as a medium for sculpture and self-expression. From pop art and installation works to a reinterpretation of graffiti through the traditional Oribe style, the influence of contemporary art led some Japanese ceramicists to the US and encouraged them to examine their own culture with a new eye.
Natalie Fitz-Gerald has collected Japanese ceramics over a ten-year period, from 1984-94. While her emphasis was on the aesthetic aspects of clay works, primarily functional pieces, her well-trained eye found appeal in the diverse artistic inspirations and technical processes that compose the modern ceramics world in Japan.
Curated by Céline Meyet, Curatorial Assistant
Sponsor of the exhibition and the accompanying catalog
Gallery hours: Tuesday through Saturday 1 – 5 pm. Closed on national holidays and during the month of August.
Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for students with valid ID. Children 12 and under free.
Weekly docent tours are held Saturdays at 1 pm and guided group tours can be arranged by calling the Center in advance at (559) 582-4915.