Bob Bruch on sat 29 apr 00
Kathryn writes:
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<<<<<<think
that there are exceptions to that viewpoint. Thus the dispute is over the use
of the term handmade. Also, I agree that artists should be honest about how
they create their work and let the jurors and public decide whether or not
they can be shown in the same show categorized separately. I don't think that
Barb was arguing that it's okay for slipcast work to be passed off as
something that it is not. I think that she is arguing that it can be
considered "handmade", but different; and if done well, an art form in it's
own right.
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Work that is cast, either press molded or slip cast can be more "handmade"
than pieces that are thrown. It just depends on what you do with it. Casting
slip is an excellent claybody for assembling parts and pieces to create one
or a series of unique entities. I do not see much if any difference between a
"cast and assembled" piece and a "thrown and altered" piece, other than the
title. Or for that matter, a press molded piece with slab, coil or extruded
additions. Could someone please explain what makes one SUPERIOR to the other.
To me, these types of pieces are far more "one of a kind" and often have far
more "handwork" than any one of the individual pieces of a production potter
who knocks out dozens of cups/plates (and often puts the same basic glaze on
each one).
I realize that there is an economic survival issue between (production?)
throwers and the "factories" producing utilitarian ware that have a
competitive price advantage over the one person thrower. I would suggest
however, that commenting on Clayart about moral and ethical superiority is
not a productive approach. It is no more pleasant or interesting than similar
preaching of the morally correct in other areas of our society.
I believe that Clayart has members who manage important wholesale and retail
outlets and shows that are germane these issues of economic and aesthetic
competition and survival. Why not organize? Why not confront these people
directly in the here and now? In fact, it would be interesting to see the
responses if the people who are complaining about this issue were to directly
confront some of these people on Clayart. If you are not willing to do
anything other than to file generally debasing and abusive comments preaching
that "what I do is superior to what you do," than it is even worse than
"useless noise."
As a PS, I am someone who does appreciate "handmade" thrown utilitarian
pieces, even though I do not do this type of work myself. I show that
appreciation by purchasing these wares and willingly paying the premium that
often goes with that decision. I do appreciate the aesthetic considerations
involved with in living with and using this work on a daily basis. That does
not stop me from thinking that many of the posts on this subject are off base
and counter productive.
Bob
Ray Aldridge on mon 1 may 00
At 11:36 AM 4/29/00 EDT, you wrote:
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>Kathryn writes:
>--------------------------------------original
>message-----------------------------------------------------------
><<<<<<>think
>that there are exceptions to that viewpoint. Thus the dispute is over the use
>of the term handmade. Or for that matter, a press molded piece with slab,
coil or extruded
>additions. Could someone please explain what makes one SUPERIOR to the other.
I haven't really heard anyone saying anything about absolute merit as it
relates to technique, I probably wouldn't have taken any notice of such a
silly position.
>
>To me, these types of pieces are far more "one of a kind" and often have far
>more "handwork" than any one of the individual pieces of a production potter
>who knocks out dozens of cups/plates (and often puts the same basic glaze on
>each one).
>
Bob, I agree with much of what you say, but I think you may have two
overlapping issues here. The discussion has focused primarily on the
proper definition of "handmade." But you are here bringing in the issue of
"originality," which is probably a whole lot harder to define.
There certainly are slipcast objects that are more original than many
thrown objects, but this is really not the subject we're discussing.
Ray
Aldridge Porcelain and Stoneware
http://www.goodpots.com
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