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don pilcher article. feb cm

updated thu 2 mar 06

 

Stephani Stephenson on mon 27 feb 06


I just read Don Pilcher's article "Looking at Looking" in the Feb. 06
Ceramics Monthly.
Thought it quite an eloquent examination of some of the aspects of that
elusive, wily creature , aesthetics.

The article is wide ranging , leaving the reader more questions than
answers,
which is his goal.
I think he
puts well to words some subtle yet worthy
observations on 'how aesthetics works' in the individual as well as in
the collective art and pottery 'audience'
about the whole process of
observing , experiencing , assessing,
appreciating and yes, judging ceramic objects.


One passage I found interesting was his discussion of " iconic objects
" ("Objects that acquire great status long after they are completed")
and a "consensus of aesthetics" which develops as the pieces are
repeatedly seen and discussed (he uses a Peter Voulkous plate and
Adelaide Alsop Robineau's Scarab Vase as examples). Also how this
attracts collector and how that influences the way we view a piece.

He also addresses the role of technique and function (such as in a
teapot) and how it relates to the aesthetic assessment.

anyway, found it a good read and quite thought provoking!
wonder if others saw it.




Stephani Stephenson
steph@revivaltileworks.com
http://www.revivaltileworks.com

Snail Scott on tue 28 feb 06


At 08:15 PM 2/27/2006 -0800, you wrote:
>I just read Don Pilcher's article "Looking at Looking" in the Feb. 06
>Ceramics Monthly.
>Thought it quite an eloquent examination of some of the aspects of that
>elusive, wily creature , aesthetics...


It was really nice to see this article -
well-considered and well-written. Very
glad CM published it! I may write more
when I get time; it's worth a discussion.
(Assuming everyone doesn't already agree
with it...nah, what are the odds of that!)

-Snail