After tough competition that saw potters from all over Namibia, the winners of the Bank Windhoek ceramics biennale have been announced.
Thirty-five entries were received, with 189 pots and ceramics entered into the Biennale. Of the entries, only 36 works were rejected, which means that 153 works are being showcased at the exhibition. Four participants are potters from the Zambezi region and all of their works were accepted.
It took the two judges, Catherine Brennon from South Africa and Cathy McRoberts from Windhoek, a few hours to go through the numerous entries. This obviously made the work of the judges hard, but at the same time it was a delight for them to see the different innovative and creative works from all the potters and ceramists. “I have not met many of the makers of these pots, but I believe there is much we could deduct about them from their work. Core characteristics reveal themselves in pots. We are actually making ourselves and we cannot escape who we are in our pots. They help us confront ourselves, which is why working with clay is so therapeutic. Humour, sensitivity, sloppiness, meticulousness and spontaneity are all there to be seen”, said Catherine Brennon.
The winners of the biennale are as follows:
The Premier Award: Mariki Grobler
In the category of Wheelwork
First Place: Jacqui Jansen van Vuuren
Second Place: Sarie Maritz
Third Place: John Hunter
In the category of Handwork
First Place: Sharon Flewellen
Second Place: Lesley Crawford
Third Place: Lucia Tjituka
In the category of Sculptural
First Place: Mariki Grobler
Second Place: Tafadzwa Mitchell Gatsi
Third Place: Christiane Hilbert
In the category of Rural
First Place: Angelina Simushi Masale
Second Place: Emelda Sinvula
Third Place: Florencia Mwiya
Most Promising Beginner: Elke le Roux
New Signature Award: Uschi Ahrens
People’s Choice Award: Betsie van Rensburg
“Some pots are what I refer to as ‘head pots’. They are planned, analyzed, reassessed, perfectly made and presented with bold confidence. Then there are ‘heart pots’. Sometimes, but not always, these pots are less technically proficient but more spontaneous and passionate. These are pots you love despite their minor flaws. Real pots made by real people. Where the head and the heart meet, you find the great pots. These pots are technically well accomplished, while having a great sensitivity to the material. They allow room for both spontaneity and playfulness. These are the pots that are exceptional; they take your breath away. I believe the Premier Prize winning piece on this exhibition falls into this category”, concluded Catherine.
The National Ceramics Biennale Exhibition takes place from 3 to 30 October 2013 in the Lower Gallery of the NAGN. Members of the public are welcome to visit the exhibition and all art pieces are for sale.
