Robin DuPont

The North-West Ceramics Foundation is pleased to announce Robin DuPont as its featured speaker at a free public lecture Wednesday, April 9, 2014, at 7:30 pm. The lecture will be held in Room 245 in the North Building of Emily Carr University of Art + Design (1399 Johnston Street, Granville Island, Vancouver). All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Robin DuPont has focused on wood and atmospheric firing, studying ceramics at the Kootenay School of Arts in Nelson, BC, at the Australian National University in Canberra, Australia, and at the Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD) in Calgary, where he earned his BFA in 2004. From 1999 to 2002, he apprenticed with production potter Jim Etzkorn. In 2010, he completed his MFA at Utah State University in Logan, studying with John Neely, a master of atmospheric firing. DuPont focuses his interests on ceramic processes and relational aspects of functional objects, conducting research and work study in Canada, the US, Australia and Korea. He currently lives and maintains a studio in Winlaw, BC.

Plates, wood and atmospheric firing

DuPont has exhibited his ceramics in solo exhibitions and major group exhibitions including in 2013 Hot Mud, at the Burlington Art Gallery, The RBC Emerging Artist People’s Choice Award Exhibition at the Gardiner Museum and NCECA in Houston, Texas. He is interested in what he calls the “relational” aspect of utilitarian objects, often staging his work so as to invite audience participation. For example, in conjunction with another exhibition in the ACAD gallery, he mounted his plates on the wall and invited visitors at the opening to remove and use them for refreshments. When he sells his work, he asks buyers to photograph and send him images of his plates “in action,” thus emphasizing connections between utilitarian objects and daily life. He believes the meaning is in the use, and he strives for ways to document his work beyond the pot floating on the white background. As he writes:

“My work is an inquiry into the ceramic process and the relational aspects of utilitarian objects. Utility is the vehicle that allows for deeper engagement with my work; one that promotes not just visual and intellectual engagement, but physical interaction so that the work can become a conduit for a social circumstance or experience. I make objects that are accessible and have the ability to perform in many contexts; in the kitchen, at the table, on the wall and in the gallery setting. My work is created with the intention for it to go on to have a life of its own, one beyond my influence.”

In his lecture, DuPont will discuss his working process and unique approach to functional wares. The lecture will take place Wednesday, April 9, 2014, at 7:30 pm in room 245, NB, Emily Carr University. We look forward to seeing you there.

Note: For further information about Robin DuPont, please visit his website at www.robindupont.com