"What really drew me to the College was the fact that I knew I would get a lot of ‘real world’ experience. My hands-on experience was invaluable. MCLA supports its students, doing what it takes to get them into new experiences that will later prove to be stepping stones into a career."
Matthew Panuska ’99 Employee Communications Manager, Pepsi-Cola Company
News & Press Releases
Nov. 20, 2008
NORTH ADAMS, MASS – Beginning next Thursday, Dec. 4, MCLA Gallery 51 will present “All Fired Up,” an exhibition of contemporary ceramics.
Curated by local ceramic artist Diane Sullivan, “All Fired Up” will feature a range of both functional and sculptural work from nine regional and national ceramicists.
An opening reception will be held on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 5 to 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
Four potters in the show – Ellen Grenadier, Tiffany Hilton, Aysha Peltz and Todd Wahlstrom – are inspired by the natural world, which is reflected in both bold and subtle surfaces of their work. Their displayed work includes a variety of handmade vases, cups, bowls and platters, which perfectly balance perfect function and the intuitive choice of the right glaze, according to Ven Voisey, MCLA Gallery 51 manager.
“What I like most is making artful pottery that will be used everyday objects that bring the intimacy of the handmade into people’s homes and that encourage us to stop and enjoy the experience of dining,” Grenadier said.
Sculptural work in the exhibition will be represented both on the wall and on pedestals as each of artists has a distinct way of forming and finishing their pieces.
Heather Allen-Swarttouw’s boat pod pieces appear to have an ancient surface, whereas Shannon Donovan creates vibrantly colored wallflowers from hubcaps and dollies cast in porcelain. Katherine Casey’s porcelain tiles have the imprint of nature and residual images which the viewer can project his or her own story into, and Sullivan’s small figural earthenware sculptures tell a story of their own. Finally, Colleen Williams’ stunningly patterned figural vases are alive with rhythm and attitude, Voisey said.
“This exhibition is not only a great opportunity to view a range of beautiful works by nine very talented ceramicists, but also a chance to pick up some unique holiday gifts which will not only give delight to the recipient, but help support these artists and the MCLA gallery,” Sullivan said.
“All Fired Up” runs through Jan. 4, 2009. MCLA Gallery 51 is at 51 Main St. in North Adams and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 413-664-8718, or go to www.mcla.edu/Gallery51 .
