space between :: about

Canberra . Halle . Honululu . Ann Arbour

Introduction to the Panel

Suzanne Wolfe :: University of Hawwai'i, Honululu, USA

This panel presentation focuses on various models for and ideas about collaboration – specifically as these may relate to some recent cross-cultural events that have promoted collaborative activities among ceramic artists.

Actually, collaboration as an approach to ceramic production is not a new or unique concept. A well-known example of collaboration is the production of classical Greek wares, where specialists were involved in different areas of production, from clay preparation to throwing, trimming and decoration. All of these specialists’ labors were geared toward a common and pre-determined end product.

We are also familiar with a more intimate model, which, although based on specific division of labor, in addition brings into play an implicit sense of trust between the collaborating parties. Here the goal may be less explicitly defined and the model of the famous husband and wife teams of the Heinos or the Natzlers comes to mind.

There is another aspect that may be juxtaposed here – that of secrecy. For centuries, Western ceramics practice has been veiled in secrecy. Closely guarded were information concerning refractory materials, firing schedules, sources for raw materials, and, of course, glaze formulas. By keeping this kind of information concealed, it was thought that your product (and perhaps yourself, by extension) could be assured a certain uniqueness. In our current climate of instantaneous communication and open information, secrets are becoming increasingly rare. I believe that, in part at least, this has helped to set the stage for ceramic artists from different traditions to come together and exchange ideas, information, and even to share secrets. The panel today is composed of artists who have participated in or organized collaborative activities in various contexts and locations – from Germany (both the former East and the former West), the Czech Republic, Hungary, Korea, Japan, mainland China, Australia, the mainland United States, and Hawai’i. The panelists represent different geographical areas and different ceramic practices, and will offer unique perspectives on collaborative models.

Janet De Boos :: National Institute of the Arts, Canberra, Australia

Antje Scharfe :: Burg Giebichenstein, Halle, Germany

Georgette Zirbes :: University of Michigan, Ann Arbour, USA