(Pic: Ceramic work with the distinctive Ardmore style)Ardmore Ceramics at show that focuses on rare and endangered species
Now in its tenth year the established Kirstenbosch Botanical Art Biennale has become a well-loved and attended show, drawing diverse and enthusiastic crowds to the gardens. The 2010 exhibition, the sixth since inception in 2000, will run from September 5 to 24 at the Old Mutual Conference Centre at Kirstenbosch and is sponsored by Old Mutual.
The main focus this year will be on rare, endangered and narrow endemic species indigenous to southern Africa. The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) recently launched the new Red List of South African Plants, an evaluation of the conservation status of species and the risks of extinction to species. Their Threatened Species Programme is endeavouring to help conserve South Africa’s flora by assessing the conservation status of all 20,456 plant species and, through the Botanical Art Biennale, SANBI intends to highlight and stimulate interest about the plight of these plants to the public.
The theme provides an invigorating artistic challenge and encourages artists to build relationships with conservation organisations, scientists, artists and horticulturists
Included in the exhibition is KwaZulu-Natal based Ardmore Ceramics which will be represented by an exquisite range of their highly original pieces. These will include beautiful evocations of local flora and associated pollinators.
The integration of traditional cultural skills with the advantages of western technology has led to the development of a unique art form which has earned Ardmore’s ceramics the description by Christie’s of London as `modern collectables’ ceramics. When Ardmore first opened the doors of its ceramic studio, the ceramics were produced mainly by women. Gradually, however, their male partners realized that they, too, could work with clay under the scenic backdrop of the Champagne and Cathkin mountain peaks of the Drakensberg range located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. These men have transformed Ardmore’s conservative functional earthenware into a more sculptural and courageous art form. The women, in turn, have responded to the new creative energy that has flowed into Ardmore and, of their own accord, have modified their style of painting. Their fine feathering, scaling and bead- and basket-like patterns now enhance the form.
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