Bark Bowl Melaleuca by Josephine Townsend

Artist Statement

Celebrating the trees that grow in and around Canberra. Twelve unique tree trunks represent trees that grow around Canberra. Using a variety of techniques, the artist has reimagined bark textures and colours. Including the finely textured twisting growth form of native eucalypts, the more symmetrical form of European trees and the deeply creviced texture of pine bark. These trees are all high fired and suitable to be enjoyed indoors and outside.

The same techniques have been used to create hand-built bowls that translate the intricacy of bark colours and patterns into functional pieces. This work is also high fired, strong, and durable for daily use.

About the Artist

Josephine Townsend is a ceramic artist fascinated by colour, form and pattern. In this exhibition she is exploiting the unique characteristics of a range of clays, and techniques for adding colour and pattern. She works out of her home studio in Canberra creating an eclectic range of works, including vases, tableware, sculpture, wall art, jewellery and lighting. After careers in teaching and the public service, Josephine is now a full-time ceramic artist and a part-time teacher of ceramics.

This exhibition aims to distil the peace and joy of beautiful natural spaces into ceramic sculptural forms and vessels. It draws on the concept of forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) where people go to natural places to refresh and heal through contemplation. Inviting the viewer to pause, to observe closely, and be absorbed by detail.

Josephine would like to gratefully acknowledge the generous support of CAPO (Capital Arts Patrons Organisation) in providing her with the Michele Black Memorial Award that has supported the creation of the work for this exhibition.