Ceramic Art Exhibition Blends Function, Expression and Craftsmanship to Create ‘Expressive’ Dinner Table

An exhibition featuring the ceramic work of artist Lisa Orr will be on display from Thursday, Feb. 24 through Wednesday, March 23 in Weil Gallery located in the University’s Center for the Arts.

Orr, who lives in Austin, teaches workshops and exhibits her work throughout the United States. She describes her ceramic art as functional, for the expressive dinner table, with a craftsmanship that is innovative in its reference to traditional ceramic techniques while being dynamic in its rich color, texture, and form.

 "In my pottery work I often refer to traditional European and Oriental porcelain, but with softer forms inspired by the playful, abundant, and colorful qualities of Mexican earthenware," said Orr. "I find myself contemplating the nature of breath and movement by softly molding their shapes. My ideas for clay forming have developed around ancient techniques."           

According to the artist, molds can be excellent tools for the capture of "accidental beauty" with translucent glazes and colorful slip to create opalescent depth. Using this method, pieces from the same mold can be distinctly different.

"Chance plays a role in my work, not only in throwing, but also in the decoration," Orr said. "My wish is to impart plant-like strength and ripe color to my plates, bowls, and cups that will enhance the enjoyment of many a meal."

Orr began her work as a studio potter when she received her MFA in 1992 from New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. That year, she was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to Bulgaria, and in 1995 the Mid-Atlantic NEA Fellowship. Her work can be found in public and private collections of art including the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco, the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, Pewabic Pottery, and Baltimore Clayworks.

The Weil Gallery is always free and is open to the public: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday, 10 a.m.-7-p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Thursday, February 24
10 a.m.
Ceramics Workshop 
Ceramics Studio on the first floor of the Center for the Arts
Free and open to the public

Thursday, February 24
6-8 p.m.
Opening Reception with Gallery Talk by Lisa Orr at 6:30 p.m.
Weil Gallery located in the Center for the Arts.
Free and open to the public.

Friday, February 25
10 a.m.
Dynamic Dialogue with Lisa Orr and a slide presentation and
discussion of her work.
Warren Theatre, located on the first floor of the Center for the Arts.
Free and open to the public.