Revolution in Clay: The Marer Collection of Contemporary Ceramics
Scripps College recently acquired the distinguished Marer Collection of contemporary ceramic art. Selected pieces are showcased in this handsome book and in an exhibition that will travel across the country for a two-year period. To illuminate the development of the collection, essays trace the movement away from a craft tradition toward innovative new forms, placing these works--spanning a half-century but dominated by the powerful work of Peter Voulkos--in a historical context. Fred Marer's unceasing and ongoing acquisition led to this unique survey of early studio pottery (primarily works from 1940 through 1960), abstract expressionist-inspired sculptures and vessels (produced by artists associated with the Otis Art Institute), and a diverse mix of recent work reflecting Marer's particular sensibility. An incisive look at contemporary clay.Alice Joyce