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Melbourne based artist Bruce Rowe plays with striking geometric forms, shadow, reflection and colour in his stunning ceramic sculptural works. In his exhibition, Recent Works, opening tomorrow at Stahl + Band in Los Angeles (!), Bruce continues his trademark architectural sculptures that evoke a sense of place, by exploring ideas of protection, defense, refuge and boundary.
Bruce’s process is driven by the tactile experience of making, and rather than being inspired externally by specific buildings or landscapes, he explains that ‘the art is revealed through the work.’ His work often begins with drawing, and then creating studies and maquettes to test ideas, different clays and glaze finishes.
Working with ceramics demands patience and discipline, and Bruce highlights that for some of the larger pieces, the final result was not revealed for up to six months. It is a good thing that Bruce finds great joy in the process of making, as he highlights ‘the ceramic process cannot be rushed or pushed to completion.’ With some works requiring multiple firings, extended periods of drying, and an uncertain outcomes… he still feels ‘a genuine sense of excitement heading to the studio to work!’
All of the artworks in Recent Works are created using purpose-made clay bodies, which create a range of different finishes and surfaces. The exhibition includes three types of work – free standing sculptures, sculptural wall reliefs and box framed form studies. Installed on walls, plinths and standing in the gallery, Recent Works creates its own landscape, and a sense of place illuminated by golden LA light.
If you happen to find yourself in LA, we’ve heard a rumour that there will be a signature cocktail on offer at opening night, the ‘Aussie 75’ featuring gin, champagne and fresh lime. The exterior of the gallery has also been painted with a stylised depiction of one of the works. Architectural inception!
Recent Works
Bruce Rowe
November 9 -29th
Stahl + Band
2308 Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Venice
California
