While it’s a craft that’s been around for centuries, the art of pottery has recently become a public favourite pastime, if the number of classes and studios are anything to go by.
In fact, there are well over 50 studios in Singapore, several of which are exhibiting at the inaugural Singapore Clay Festival this weekend. A multi-day affair, the festival celebrates the art form with creative exhibitions, a makers’ market featuring work from both hobbyists and experienced potters, and workshops for both adults and children.
Attending the opening ceremony of the festival yesterday was guest of honour President Halimah Yacob. In her opening remarks, she lauded the event as a showcase of the Singaporean creative spirit: “Each potter uses the same medium of clay, but each end product is unique and a reflection of their thoughtful, creative expressions.”
Though the workshops were held earlier this week, the exhibitions and Clay Makers’ Market are still open over the weekend, till 29 November. The two exhibitions on display include Singapore Clay Heritage, which showcases works from potters with years of experience, and Red – Works from Singapore Clay, a charity sale of works that were made with clay harvested from the Holland Village area.
You’ll get to take home some pieces for yourself from the Market, too, which features the work of over 130 potters. The variety in style is something to behold: some are minimalist and modern, some have ethnic influences, some are nature-inspired.
Mr Latip Hussain, a potter who has been practising the art form since 2003, takes inspiration from the island of Pulau Ubin, which holds special significance for his family as it is where his wife spent her childhood. His works pay homage to the tall coconut trees and quarry lakes on the island, which he meditates on as he shapes the clay.
“Passion, patience, humility, discipline: these are the values that have helped me continue over the years,” he says of his philosophy.
For more pottery studios’ exhibitions, take a look at our roundup below: