Celebrating a Century of James Tower: A Legacy in Clay

Hello fellow art enthusiasts! Susan here, your resident handicraft and ceramics enthusiast, bubbling over with excitement to delve into the remarkable life and work of a true giant in the field – James Tower. For those unfamiliar with this influential artist, get ready to be inspired! The York Art Gallery is hosting a spectacular exhibition, “James Tower: Ceramic Artist – A Centenary Celebration,” and it’s an absolute must-see for anyone with a passion for ceramics, art history, or simply beautiful, handcrafted objects.

A Life Molded by Clay

Born in 1919, James Tower’s journey into the world of ceramics began almost by chance. He initially trained as an architect, a field that undoubtedly influenced his later artistic endeavors. However, fate, it seems, had other plans. During World War II, Tower found himself stationed in India, a period where he encountered the rich tradition of studio pottery that was blossoming in the region. This experience ignited a passion within him, leading him to study pottery in earnest at the Delhi College of Art.

From Architectural Precision to Organic Forms

Tower’s architectural background is evident in the structured and geometric forms that characterize his early work. There’s a captivating balance and symmetry to these pieces, a testament to his meticulous nature and keen eye for design. However, as he delved deeper into the world of clay, a fascinating evolution took place. Tower’s forms gradually shed their rigid edges, embracing a more organic and expressive quality. Inspired by the natural world, his later works flowed with a newfound freedom, echoing the gentle curves of seeds, pods, and other organic wonders.

A Symphony of Texture and Glaze

What truly sets James Tower’s ceramics apart is his masterful command of texture and glaze. He wasn’t content with simply shaping the clay; he pushed the boundaries of its potential, experimenting tirelessly with different techniques to achieve breathtaking results. His signature style emerged through a combination of thrown forms, hand-building, and carving, resulting in pieces that were both visually stunning and incredibly tactile.

But the magic truly came alive with his glazes. Tower possessed an almost alchemical understanding of how different glazes would interact with the clay, creating mesmerizing patterns and depth. From rich, earthy tones to vibrant, almost iridescent hues, his glazes added another layer of complexity and beauty to his already captivating forms.

More Than Just Pots: A Legacy of Education and Inspiration

Beyond his own artistic achievements, James Tower was a dedicated educator who played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of British studio pottery. He shared his passion and knowledge with countless students during his tenure as the Head of Pottery at Brighton College of Art. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, fostering a vibrant community of ceramic artists and enthusiasts.

Why You Should Experience This Exhibition

“James Tower: Ceramic Artist – A Centenary Celebration” is more than just an exhibition; it’s a journey through the evolution of an artist, a testament to the enduring power of craft, and a celebration of a life dedicated to the pursuit of beauty in its purest form.

Here’s why you can’t miss this exhibition:

• Witness Mastery: Prepare to be awestruck by over 100 ceramic pieces showcasing the breadth and depth of Tower’s artistic journey.
• Trace an Evolution: Observe firsthand the fascinating shift in Tower’s style, from his early architectural forms to his later organic masterpieces.
• Delve into Process: Gain insights into Tower’s creative process through displays of his working drawings, tools, and personal reflections.
• Experience the Legacy: Understand the profound impact James Tower had on British studio pottery and the generations of artists he inspired.

Ready to Be Inspired?

Head over to the York Art Gallery before January 5th, 2020, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of James Tower. You can find more information about the exhibition, including opening hours and ticket prices, on the York Art Gallery website (https://www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/). Trust me, this is one exhibition that will stay with you long after you’ve left the gallery.

Exploring Further: The World of Ceramics

If, like me, you find yourself utterly captivated by the world of ceramics after experiencing James Tower’s work, there’s a whole universe of ceramic art waiting to be discovered! Here are a few resources to fuel your newfound passion:

• The Craft Council: https://www.craftscouncil.org.uk/ – Discover contemporary ceramic artists and find exhibitions near you.
• Ceramics Monthly: https://ceramicartsnetwork.org/ – Dive into the world of ceramics with articles, tutorials, and inspiration for all skill levels.
• The Victoria and Albert Museum (Ceramics Collection): https://www.vam.ac.uk/collections/ceramics/ – Explore a vast online collection of ceramics from around the world, spanning centuries of artistic expression.

Happy potting, everyone!