When I look at Alison Kay's work, what strikes me first is an impression of timelessness. Disregard her 'glazes' and the shapes could be artefacts from a mediaeval fresco or an archaeological dig.
- Paddy McGovern (former Visual Arts Co-ordinator, Éigse Carlow Arts Festival)
O’Connell Gallery is delighted to present Alison Kay: Reflections on Form.
This solo exhibition focuses on new work by the artist, representing her continued exploration of sculptural ceramic forms. Aerodynamic shapes, plants, architecture and archaeology, are all sources of inspiration.
Alison Kay’s vessel-like pieces are coil built using white raku clay and are then gradually pared back and attentively worked to achieve the desired symmetry in the form. Sharp outlines and well-defined curves give a tautness and volume to the forms. Using a specialist technique, layers of coloured Terra Sigillata are applied, then burnished to give a rich sheen. After the biscuit firing, resist patterns are then laid onto the surface before being smoke-fired. Afterwards, each piece is cleaned and polished, revealing the colour beneath.