COLUMBIA

President’s Message

This year the guild will have been in existence for 55 years. I think that’s quite an achievement. Of course, an organization like ours doesn’t run on its own; it takes the collective efforts of all of its members. It is time to say a huge THANK YOU to the many volunteers who donate their time and skills to make this organization work. We simply couldn't manage without your help!

As spring approaches, so does the Annual General Meeting. It will be a bit later than usual (June 5), because of vacations and the major change-over of board members that is taking place this year. We

are currently seeking new board members, particularly those who can assist with event management. If you are interested in shaping the future of this organization by joining the board, or if you know someone who would be a good candidate, please contact me or any other board member for more information.

And, hey, if you have some ideas for guild activities, no contribution

is too small. We'd love to hear from you, too.

—Jinny Whitehead

Ga | le ry N @wWS By Sharon Cohen

“Tt’s so peaceful!”

These were the words of Charmian Johnson on seeing our Vancouver Collects exhibition, featuring Doris Shabolt’s personal collection, on loan to us from the Morris and Helen Belkin Art Gallery at UBC. Charmian is tight; for the most part theyre quiet pots, understated and perfect in their structure and their aesthetic. Despite the fact that the overall impression is one of subtlety and gentle harmony, there are some large and imposing pieces, pieces with a raw energy (to quote Debra Sloan, another of many artists who visited the show.) Glenn Lewis has a large vase that epitomizes raw energy, and the same description applies to Michael Henry's oversized lidded pot. In total contrast are the diminutive porcelain pieces by Charmian Johnson and John Reeve—exquisite delicacy, so beautiful.

Several aspects of this exhibition have resonated with me, and with others. I love the fact that it’s simultaneously historical and personal. It shows work spanning several decades and several artists, and acts as a real showcase for the pottery movement Dianna Waggoner described so eloquently in her article in last month’s newsletter. At the same time, it is Doris Shadbolt’s kitchen or her dinner table. I almost feel as if I’m in her home enjoying her hospitality—how nice!

T’ve also enjoyed the fact that this exhibition has proven to be such a springboard for discussion and interaction. Potters, and to a lesser extent members of the public, find the displayed work a catalyst for discussion and the sharing of anecdotes, both technical and personal. I’ve heard such statements as, “This was SUCH a nice clay to work with” and “Charmian Johnson was my art teacher in Grade Six!”

Most gratifying of all, is the cross- generational phenomenon I seem to be witnessing. Young Emily Carr University art students have been in, and I’ve solicited their opinions, wondering if they may find the work too conservative or traditional for their tastes. On the contrary, they’ve been filled with awe and admiration. I sense a profound respect for the work of the masters from this up-and-coming generation of potters. Likewise, out of curiosity, I asked Charmian Johnson what she thought of Claire Madill’s work. Claire is one of our juried gallery artists and a recent Emily Carr graduate. Charmian loved Claire's work, and described it as true art, which really gladdened me. What a treat when an exhibition can. generate so much dialogue and discovery.

Retail Jury Call for Entry

The annual retail jury for the Gallery of BC Ceramics will be held on April 16, 2010. The submission deadline is April 15, 2010. Please follow the submission guidelines on www.bcpotters.com/ Gallery/forms/2009_Gallery_Jury_ Application.pdf and send in your We

welcoming guild members as new juried

application. look forward to

artists in the gallery.

Truly inspiring work from Doris Shadbolt’s collection graced the gallery for the month of March.

Potters Guild of BC Newsletter - April 2010