Ron Rado Memorial Prize – 2013

Piyut – Melodic poem

A female figure, holding an Oud (a Middle Eastern musical instrument), is sailing and composing melodies to the rhythm of the waves. The music is leading her to a destination of comfort. The wheels carrying the boat symbolise vision and direction.

My Boat sculptures evolved while I was developing the Shir Hashirim series. Inspired by shapes found in sea life, the body of work looks at journeys and life imprints. The sculptures Masa and Piyutim are boats that become vessels for a voyage story. The series illustrates a journey to self-discovery.

The sculptures are hand formed by porcelain paper clay. The surface is treated by layers of oxides, glazes, ceramic crayons and screen prints, requiring multiple firing to stone ware temperatures.

Pat Emery Award – 2004

“Spanish Dancer” was awarded the “Pat Emery” prize at “Xposed Exhibition“ 2004, for technical skill, aesthetic appeal & originality of work.

The “Pat Emery” Award was established in 1989, to commemorate Pat’s life and to encourage new ceramic artists. Pat was a founding member of the VCG who dedicated a lot of time and energy to the ceramic community.

The “Spanish Dancer” is a search for the elements of music and movement in sculptural design. It conveys certain feminine energies whilst maintaining an abstract identity.

The energy and the rhythm of Flamenco are displayed in the dress which dominates the design. The variations of red and orange colours emphasize the hot temperament of the dance.

Producing long and skinny figures precipitated the use of paper clay. This facilitates the creation of complex forms and I continuously dry the figure with a fire torch during the building process. As the composition forms, I am able to add soft clay to the leather-hard shape. The work was ultimately completed by the texture and contrast of colours. The piece went through 3 firing stages, until it reached the desired result.

The sculpture exposes some interior elements which enriches the piece and reveals surprises. The piece is created to be observed from any angle, encouraging new discoveries.