A Life of Colour - John ffrench, Irish ceramic Artist, A Retrospective Exhibition 1951-2007
11th August 2007 - 7th October 2007
The Crafts Council of Ireland honours the great pioneer of Irish contemporary ceramics. This first ever lifetime-achievement, solo exhibition traces a remarkable career that has lasted over half a century.
Coveted by collectors the world over, John ffrench’s stunning ceramic works are instantly recognizable for their distinctive bright colours and unusual shapes.
Based abroad for most of his life, distant locations such as India, Italy and America have influenced his style. His hand-built, colourful and non-utilitarian pots have a Mediterranean feel. Miro, Matisse and the cubist paintings of Braque and Picasso also liberated him for the constraints of tradition. From his earliest days, John ffrench’s work has been far removed from the ‘little brown pots’ coming out of Ireland and Great Britain.
It is appropriate that this exhibition takes place in Kilkenny, as it was there that ffrench did his earliest Irish work. He introduced a new and exciting modernist style of pottery into Ireland in the 1950s. But it wasn’t always appreciated: Commentators said his designs were ‘too obstinately asymmetrical’ and ‘almost wickedly provocative’. Even Myles na Gopaleen had his say, describing his pieces as ‘tortured ashtrays at three guineas apiece,’.
For over 50 years, new vessels and dishes covered with brightly coloured patterns have continued to pour forth from this inspirational artist. John ffrench’s pottery has brought joy to many and, for the first time ever, his lifetime’s work has been gathered together under one roof.
Curated by Peter Lamb, A life in Colour is the Crafts Council of Ireland’s first lifetime achievement exhibition. Itopens during Kilkenny Arts Festival and runs from August 11 to October 7. The National Craft Gallery is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm and Sundays from 11am to 6pm. Admission is free. For further information contact Helen Carroll. Tel: 086-8057220 E mail: ncgpress@ccoi.ie
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