Ararat Gallery TAMA is hosting an artist talk on Saturday 10 February at 2pm to celebrate the closing weekend of the exhibition SIXTY: The Journal of Australian Ceramics 60th Anniversary 1962–2022. The touring exhibition from Australian Design Centre features twenty-two ceramic artists from across Australia to honour sixty years of the The Journal of Australian Ceramics (JAC).

The artist talk panel will include artists David Ray and Jane Sawyer facilitated by Debbie Prior, Chief Executive Officer of The Australian Ceramics Association (TACA).

David Ray’s ceramic practice is a wry commentary on contemporary consumerism and the less celebrated aspects of Australian cultural life. Creating neo-baroque ceramics, incorporating an abundance of colours, textures and decals onto his handcrafted vessels, Ray is interested in the idea of ceramics as both functional objects and ornaments of value.

Jane Sawyer's work draws on a blend of contemporary design, craft practice and conceptual curiosity. Whether engaging the tactile sense corporeally through a humble tea cup or visually through sculptural pieces and installations, fluidity, movement and a keen interest in materiality are her pathways guided by an overriding interest in the object as a catalyst for connection and meaning.

During the event the artists will discuss their work, and the experience of participating in a national touring exhibition.

The Artist Talk on 10 February begins at 2pm. Free entry, with bookings essential for seating capacity. Bookings can be made via the Gallery website - www.araratgallerytama.com.au - or by phone - 03 5355 0220.