Posted under Ceramic art Tiles
At MyTile we are steadily experimenting with the use of new shapes, testing the market to see what and how they may assimilate this shock of the new in forms and shapes.
At first we test organic shaped tiles, then I did trees or rather landscapes on semi organic shaped tiles. My relationship with these could evolve from rather innocent reactions to cracked tiles but most frequently it is the hunger to discover new parameters and new points of reference instinctively.
When creating the forms in this post, shape was the initial stimulant, and with the use of different tools, materials and design elements of art the artist can then develop and re-develop the form taking shape in front of him or her. These shapes develop their own personalities due to all the different responses to it, and feelings relating to shyness, aggressiveness, awkwardness or confidence can easily be related to the character of these forms.
The technical limitations working with ceramic materials, might inhibit the speed of discovering something fresh, and at times years might pass before I shall re-engage with some knowledge gained long ago.
What will be next? Do you have ideas? Do these shapes excite you?
All that is new was possibly done before, centuries past, we as artist designers just reinvent and place these objects in new environments where different relationships can be shaped.
Martle` on 13 May 2008 at 12:47 pm #
Definitely exciting! They go far beyond the boundaries of conventionality - kicking the mundane out of the way.
I have long been of the opinion that tiles (more specifically, wall tiles) should not be used only in kitchens and bathrooms, where tactile appreciation is often lost. Unfortunately, in general, choices are quite limiting in terms of suitability.
These, however, can be used to accentuate any area (indoors and outdoors) to great effect - bravo.
My imagination is reeling with possible applications ……. I am most definitely sold on these!
elza on 13 May 2008 at 1:29 pm #
I’m sure the response on the market to the new shapes and forms will be favourable. This is very interesting. Especially the landscapes on the semi organic shaped tiles are beautiful! Likewise the handmake tiles - a real eye-catcher. Quite unique.
All your creations are so unique but the ceramic faces - they certainly create a feeling of personal involvement! - and also Helé’s fauna and flora, deserve special mention. I do feel I want to touch them. We are looking forward to more of your beautiful creations.
Gerrit Oosthuizen on 13 May 2008 at 3:16 pm #
Yes Elza, the response was and is quite stimulating, the reaction to these tiles are quite personal, but the “shock of the new” relate to something fresh, new and in a way it is shapes that we encounter everyday, look, look,look, and look again, and you will see!!
I am sure to deliver on some exiting new concept tiles soon, so keep posted, evenGillian’s figures and Hele’s proteas will be like something never seen before!
Gerrit Oosthuizen on 13 May 2008 at 3:36 pm #
Martle’, keep posting!!
It is reactions like yours that make us push for new boundaries, some new, some imaginary and some just for the fun. Passion drives many a discovery, and this tedious process of standing up after each “failed” attempt, does take on a life of it’s own. Sharing it with positive and progressive thinkers like yourself add fuel to the process!
If you could imagine or identify some or other clay-art endeavour, let me know, it might just be the impulse to start a great new collaboration, who knows!?
elza on 03 Jul 2008 at 7:24 am #
It is so good to be kept up to date not only with your own latest creations but also with that of other ceramic artists - here I’m thinking of those amazing ceramic chairs! More proof that there are no boundaries to the creativity of the artistic mind. Keep us informed!
Your own latest designs for bathrooms and kitchens once again show your admirable capacity to continuously create not only beautiful tiles but also work of a very high quality. I can now tell that the 3 - in my eyes unique! - little gold on black “bird” tiles from your studio have found a place on a wall especially created for them, in the Netherlands!
But on to Sim and Goodman. First of all, hats of to you for all the support - time and energy - you have given to the KwasaKwasa project! Those mugs also immediately told me a “story”. These guys have real talent. There is some “rawness” in the beautiful little designs - or is it “freshness”- that I sincerely hope will not disappear as their skills develop but with guidance from you 3 wise “men” I am sure that will not happen! What you are doing to exploit some of the enormous “hidden” potential in your country is in one word admirable! It would be so wonderful if more artist were prepared to follow in your footsteps! Also, last but certainly not the least, your efforts to conserve energy and work towards a “greener”environment show REAL committment! Keep it up and keep your fans informed of what is happenning in the exiting world of ceramics!
Elza