Ewan Brown, a former long time member of the Circle, will speak on 18th-century Liverpool porcelain, represented by numerous factories, many of which are not well understood. Ewan will share part of his extensive collection, which focuses on the pre 1770 period, and will speak about the history, production, markets and variety of these often underappreciated wares. 

May meeting

Our May speaker, Jill Vella, is a collector of lively mid-century pottery, particularly Poole pottery from the United Kingdom (1960s to 70s) and West German pottery (1950s to 70s). Her collection features a wide range of incredibly striking and vivid pieces. Two important series from Poole were the Delphis and Studio ranges; while, in West Germany, over 100 companies and studio potters were busily producing art pottery in a huge variety of colourful, abstract designs. Jill will tell us a little of their history, consider the most influential designers and share her love of these flamboyant pots.

Winter Seminar - The Art of the Table 

This year, our Winter Seminar will be held at the Johnston Collection (TJC) and will take us on a journey from the 18th century to down the local pub, from European palaces to Imperial Japan, exploring civilized and social dining, drinking and fellowship. It will incorporate individual presentations, a personalised tour of TJC’s latest installation, lunch, and social drinks at the conclusion.

June meeting

Robert Barron is the owner of Gooseneck Pottery, located in the hills above Korumburra. His individual hand thrown pieces are wood fired in a 14 metre climbing kiln and every piece is unique.  They range from mugs and bowls, platters and baking dishes, to large and sculptural planters, tubs and water features. Robert will speak to us about his pottery and the wide range of amazing works that he produces.

40th Anniversary celebrations

To celebrate 40 fabulous years, we are holding a cocktail party at the Lyceum Club.  Our guest of honour will be the noted philanthropist Kystyna Campbell-Pretty. As well as speaking to us, Krystyna will launch the Ceramics and Glass Circle of Australia grant in honour of Patricia Begg OAM and Chris Begg and will award the inaugural grant.

The winner of the inaugural grant in honour of Patricia Begg OAM and Chris Begg will speak to us about their ceramics practice.  The identity of this gifted ceramicist will be revealed at our 40th anniversary party.

 This ceramic artist is influenced by the natural colours of the Australian landscape and the effects of fire on the ecology; the works involve a range of clay bodies, hand building techniques, slips and terra sigillata, and the use of combustible materials and burnishing to produce pieces of timeless and subtle beauty.

Leslie Stephan, an Adelaide based member, will speak to us on the psychology of the collector. He will explore what takes someone on the journey from a child with a small hobby to the adult who amasses a vast collection, with a focus on the collector’s inner psychosocial world.  

 Leslie is a former Clinical Director of Mental Health and a consultant psychiatrist and has a life-long passion for European painting and decorative arts. He is a member of the French Porcelain Society and the Furniture History Society, and is a volunteer guide at the David Roche Museum.