For three decades, John Kuczwal has perfected his craft in the reduced lustre pigment ceramic technique—a method first discovered in the 9th century Islamic world. Today, only about 20 potters worldwide maintain mastery in this complex and challenging ceramic process. Kuczwal’s expertise has taken him on extensive journeys to study lustreware in museums and private collections and collaborate with artisans in historical lustre production centres like Kashan, Gubbio, and Manises.
Now, he showcases his own lustre works alongside a curated survey of lustrewares, both historical and modern day, from private collections. From its ancient Middle Eastern beginnings to contemporary pieces, this exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the world of Islamic art rarely seen in Australia.
Historical lustre ceramics featuring works from Iraq, Iran, Spain and Italy, and contemporary works by Alan Caiger-Smith (UK), Sutton Taylor (UK), Alan Peascod (AUS), John Kuczwal (AUS), Bob Connery (AUS), Jonathan Chiswell-Jones (UK). Also included are contemporary works from Arturo Benavent (Spain) and Abbas Akbari (Iran).
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Image: John Kuczwal, Rainforest, 2013 Lustre Bowl, reduced pigment lustre on earthware clay. 37 x 12 cm. Courtesy of the artist.
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