We are delighted to present this two man show – which features work by established ceramic artists Dan Kelly and Barry Stedman – both of whom will be showing work here in Liverpool for the first time.
Dan and Barry both treat the surfaces of their clay vessels like an incredible canvas. They have a sense of energy and drama to the application of the ‘drawing on clay’ which is echoed in the paintings that both produce and which will also feature in our exhibition. Inspired by the landscape of his rural surroundings, Barry’s pieces are bursting with beautiful vivid colours. In contrast, city based Dan uses no colour and his striking work is full of action.
Join Dan, Barry and the team for a special opening event on Thursday 22 August 2024, from 5.30pm – 7pm. Refreshments will be served and Friends of the Bdc will receive a 10% discount on all purchases during the evening.
A curated selection of work by Dan and Barry will be available through our online shop.
Barry’s intention as a ceramic artist is to make colourful, dynamic forms that come out of a deep connection to the landscape. Often his work is rooted in the directness and urgency of drawing outside; responding to the weather, drama, and life which surrounds his riverside garden studio. Starting on the wheel or constructed with slabs, his red earthenware vessels are marked and altered, scored and handled, before being painted with layers of coloured slips and oxides, and washes of vivid colour enhanced with a bright rich clear glaze.
Dan has been influenced by the city environment and the human figure: not just in how he describes pieces, but how they relate to each other like members of the same family by use of form and surface. His thrown vessels allow him to work in a spontaneous, intuitive way, keeping the soft clay qualities of a freshly thrown piece and adding contrasting details, mainly with a monochrome palette.