New @ the KZNSA Gallery

The KZNSA has, this week, launched the opening of the new Park Contemporary. This new space will showcase the works of professional artists in KZN. It aims to function as an "art agency" that will serve artists, supporters of art and collectors. The launch features various artist's work including Peter Rippon, Bronwen Vaughn-Evans, Coral Spencer Domijan, Clive Sithole, John Roome, Grace Kotze and me.

 Here's some photos of the works what you can expect to see:

another beautiful work by Bronwen Vaughn-Evans

Clive Sithole's ceramic work

Detail of Coral Spencer Domijan's painting

Peter Rippon's 'Moth' oil painting

The artwork I submitted is an abbreviated version of 'Schema' which was included in my last show, 'Imprint' in November 2009. These are the works that were not sold then, there was originally 16 pieces. I think they still work well as a series of 10. These are made in porcelain fired to 1200 degree celcius and then glazed. Here's some images of my work you can see at the KZNSA Gallery.

 

Carla da Cruz - Schema, 2009

Schema - detail - 5 pieces

Schema - detail - 4 pieces

Schema - detail - 2 pieces

Schema (growth)

Schema (lichen)

Schema (nodules)

Schema (segmented)

Schema (tendrils)

Imprint: New Ceramics by Carla da Cruz

Opened on 27 October, until 15 November 2009 at the KZNSA Gallery, Durban, South Africa.

Photographs taken by Andrew Griffin, who specializes in photographing art works. He did a fantastic job, lighting and colours are spot on.

Wallflower series: 35 individually made, porcelain wall pieces.

Schema: 16 glazed porcelain wall pieces.

My Upcoming Exhibition

There has been no recent activity (I am not a regular blogger) as I'm in the process of finishing work for my upcoming exhibition at the KZNSA Gallery in Durban, opening on 27 October. I've had a couple of problems with firing e.g. kilns under firing and work cracking which is always stressful. As those that work in ceramic should know, one always needs a plan B or maybe plan C or possibly be very good at patching, disguising or creative fixes! It's been a very busy last few months as it is also the end of the teaching year and the kilns are all on the go with student work.

It's two and a bit weeks to go and I've just about finished all the making and it's time for glazing. I find glazing is a whole other challenge particularly when it comes to deciding on finishes/colours. The wrong decision can ruin a whole piece. I hope it goes well and not too many hiccups along the way... And please kilns, cooperate!

2008 Corobrik National Ceramics Competition

I participated in the 2008 Corobrik National Ceramics Exhibition held at the University of Johannesburg Art Gallery. Guest judge was Peter Beard an acclaimed ceramic artist living and working in the UK. The 2008 Corobrik winner was Nikkie Swanepoel, who made a series of sculptural cow heads. I received a highly commended certificate. The work I submitted is a series of five small domed pieces, titled "Flower Series II". Here are some images of the work.

Ceramics SA KZN Regional Exhibition 2008

I was invited to participate in the Ceramics SA KZN Regional exhibition at ArtSpace Durban gallery. I made a group of five small works entitled "Growth". These are some images of my work on the exhibition held in June this year.

Work from Common Ground Exhibition, Cone Series 2007

Common Ground Exhibition 2007: KZNSA Gallery, Durban

This is a series of three-dimensional cone forms made from the same mould. Each piece is individually altered and unique. These are made to hang on the wall.


red spikes, green leaves (behind)


turquoise, honeycomb, olive texture



green rose
glazed earthenware
2007
size: 18x18x18cm


protea (side profile)
glazed earthenware
2007


protea (front view)



yellow coral
glazed earthenware
2007

barnacle (detail)
glazed earthenware
2007

artichoke
glazed earthenware
2007


artichoke (detail)

blue rose
glazed earthenware
2007


blue rose (detail)