Pottery Expo @ Warrandyte was instigated by local studio potter, Jane Annois in February 2001. It is now an annual event that showcases the work of selected ceramic artists. Each year a panel selects and invites around 40 exhibitors from the many applicants that submit images of their work.
The Pottery
Expo is based on the concept of the Marche de Potiers [Potters Markets] of France.
These markets started slowly about 20 years ago in France when galleries were
closing, potters were struggling to make a living. From the beginning, the French
have not compromised on the quality of the work, always striving to present
a variety of the best work available. The setting for the markets, and ambience
created is also very important. For example a picturesque 15th century village,
or a park on a lake overlooking the Alps provides the perfect environment for
displaying one's work and inviting the public to enjoy spending time with the
potters.
The markets have grown enormously, not in size, that would spoil the intimacy,
not in frequency as that would be "over kill", but in the number of
venues. Each region holds a potters market annually or biannually, supported
by the municipality as a major cultural and tourist event. Potters now are able
to make a living, younger potters are encouraged in their ideals and ambitions,
the public are valuing ceramic art, the community is participating, galleries
are reopening and local businesses prosper as a side benefit. These are similar
aims I believe we are able to achieve in Australia, with positive signs being
shown after the first of such events held in Warrandyte.
To help encourage and develop the ongoing growth of ceramics in the region, the three Melbourne TAFE colleges that run ceramics courses are each encouraged to have a student table at Expo. This gives students valuable experience in presenting their work to the public, as well as developing their exhibition and marketing skills. Expo also provides a great opportunity for students to meet and chat with the exhibitors and demonstrators.
Pottery Expo is made possible and successful by the support of many organisations and individuals, in particular we wish to thank:-
Clayworks
Australia
The councils of Manningham and Nillumbik
The many volunteers without whom the expo could not be the well-organised, fun
event that it is!
Previous Pottery Expo review pages
2001
- The inaugural Pottery Expo at Warrandyte
2002
- The tradition takes shape (Warrandyte 2002)
2003 - A third great year in succession (Warrandyte 2003)
2005 - The Ultimate Eggcup (Warrandyte 2005)
Pottery Expo @ gratefully acknowledges the support of our sponsor:
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Johnston Court, Dandenong, |