Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life: A Look at Gerald Mak’s Ceramic Art

The art world is brimming with talented individuals pushing the boundaries of creativity, and ceramic artist Gerald Mak is certainly one of them. Graduating from the prestigious Royal College of Art (RCA), Mak’s work goes beyond simple pottery, delving into the realms of sculpture and tile work, all infused with a unique narrative drawn from his personal experiences and the world around him.

A Fusion of Cultures and Techniques

Born in Hong Kong, Mak’s artistic journey has been deeply influenced by his cultural background. His fascination with Chinoiserie, a European interpretation of East Asian artistic traditions, is a recurring theme in his work. He sees it as a representation of cultural exchange, both commercially and artistically, highlighting the complexities and historical context of such interactions.

Mak’s time at the RCA coincided with significant political events in Hong Kong and the global pandemic, experiences that profoundly impacted his artistic voice. His work explores themes of “otherness,” identity, and human connection, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of our times.

The Allure of Clay and Collaboration

Clay, for Mak, is more than just a medium; it’s a bridge connecting art, design, and craft. He appreciates its versatility, its historical significance across cultures, and its ability to blur the lines between artistic disciplines.

A pivotal point in Mak’s journey was his residency in Jingdezhen, China, a city renowned for its porcelain production. Guided by his RCA tutor, Felicity Aylieff, Mak immersed himself in the local craftsmanship, learning traditional techniques from skilled artisans known as shifu. This experience ignited his passion for hand-rolled porcelain tiles, which he views as canvases for his intricate carvings.

Collaboration is another cornerstone of Mak’s practice. He credits artist Matthew Raw as a mentor who instilled in him the value of collaborative efforts. This collaborative spirit is evident in his work with the Jingdezhen artisans, where their expertise brought a new dimension to his artistic vision.

Finding Beauty in Simplicity: Carving and Texture

Mak’s artistic process is as captivating as the finished pieces themselves. He is drawn to the tactile nature of carving, painstakingly shaving away layers of clay to create dynamic, textured surfaces. The play of light and shadow on these carved surfaces adds depth and intrigue, transforming simple porcelain into captivating works of art.

“The quality of a hand-rolled tile is very different to those produced from moulds,” Mak explains. “Even if hand-rolled to precision and fired flat, they still have a subtle undulation in form that makes them very special.” This appreciation for the subtle imperfections of handmade objects is a testament to Mak’s respect for traditional craftsmanship.

From Everyday Objects to Artistic Motifs

One of the most striking aspects of Mak’s work is his use of recurring motifs, such as hands and frogs. These seemingly simple images are imbued with deeper meaning, reflecting his observations of the world around him.

The hand, for instance, represents labor, touch, and communication – themes that resonate deeply in a world grappling with isolation and the limitations of physical contact. His series “Desire for Communication and Relationships” beautifully encapsulates this sentiment, with hands appearing on both his signature tiles and vessels.

Mak’s fascination with frogs stems from their ubiquitous presence in popular culture and their almost humanoid qualities. They became symbols of his experiences in Jingdezhen and during the pandemic, adding a touch of humor and whimsy to his work.

Drawing Inspiration from Diverse Sources

Mak’s artistic influences extend beyond the realm of ceramics. He finds inspiration in the sculptures and paper works of Spanish artist Eduardo Chillida, the graphic styles of artists like Marcel Dzama, Nathalie du Pasquier, and Paul Noble, and even the nostalgic aesthetics of early simulation video games.

This eclectic mix of influences speaks to Mak’s ability to find beauty and inspiration in unexpected places, seamlessly blending them into his own unique artistic language.

A Glimpse into the Artist’s Mind

Ultimately, Gerald Mak’s work offers a glimpse into the artist’s mind, reflecting his personal experiences, cultural background, and artistic philosophy. His pieces are imbued with a sense of humor, elegance, and a deep appreciation for the power of human connection. As he continues to explore new techniques and push the boundaries of his craft, one can only anticipate the captivating narratives that will emerge from his studio in the years to come.

Further Exploration:

• The Ceramic Review: Stay updated on contemporary and historical ceramics, including emerging artists like Gerald Mak.
• The Royal College of Art: Learn more about the prestigious institution where Gerald Mak honed his skills.
• The Victoria and Albert Museum: Explore a world-renowned collection of ceramics and decorative arts, including examples of Chinoiserie.