368: Paul Greenhalgh on how ceramics shaped civilization
Today on the Tales of a Red Clay Rambler Podcast I have an interview with curator and scholar Paul Greenhalgh. His recently published book Ceramic Art and Civilisation establishes a historical through line linking four transformative eras into a larger history that explains how ceramics helped civilizations flourish. In our interview we talk about the great aesthetic transformers (Mediterranean classical era, the Middle East, China, and the modern era), how museums structure the public’s understanding of history, and why skill remains an important aspect of art history. Paul is currently Executive Director at the Sainsbury Centre, UK, a gallery and think-tank that is part of the University of East Anglia, where he is also Professor of Art History and Museum Strategy. For more information visit www.paulgreenhalgh.net.
(Images listed in header) A grouping of Lucie Rie vessels; T’ang bactrian camel, Anonymous, Chinese, c. 760; A woman potter (Hefneryn) on a playing card, German, c. 1450; Owl jug, Anonymous, British, c. 1680
(Images directly above) Big Man and Big Woman sculptures, Viola Frey, c. 2000; Grouping of Hans Coper vessels; Asymmetrical Reduced Black Piece, Magadalene Odundo, British, 1992
I want to give a shout out to KC Clay Guild for sponsoring this episode of the podcast. KC Clay Guild has been supporting ceramic artists and providing a space to explore clay in Kansas City, Missouri since 1988. The guild is accepting applications for their Artist-in-Residence Program until April 15th. This program is open to anyone who is looking to jump start their ceramics career. The guild has been upgrading their already well-equipped studio and will be adding a new Blaauw Gas kiln in 2021. Benefits include a private studio space, free firing, opportunities to teach, and an annual stipend. Check out www.kcclayguild.org/AIR to learn more.