A dynamic exhibition of contemporary ceramic works by TAFE NSW students is being held at the community-run Elevator ARI Studio and Gallery in Lismore.

The exhibition, entitled “Catch-22” showcases the talent and tenacity of current and graduating Diploma of Ceramics students from TAFE NSW Lismore, who saw their campus facilities damaged and student works destroyed due to flooding earlier this year.

The ceramics industry is on fire with domestic demand for contemporary ceramics anticipated to grow over the next five years as household incomes and construction activity trend upward following the containment of COVID-19.

Head Teacher of Ceramics and Visual Arts, Rohan Langford, said TAFE NSW’s ethos has always been to support the creative life of the region.

“Now that we’re up and running again after the floods in Lismore and TAFE NSW Ceramics courses are being delivered from Southern Cross University, this project is a great opportunity for our talented Diploma of Ceramics students to put their passion, dedication, and creative flair on show,” Mr Langford said.

“I'm relieved and excited to see our students exhibit their works once more. Many of our students have sold work to galleries and collectors around the world, won national and international competitions and run successful businesses,” Mr Langford said.

“Ceramics is a tactile experience in an increasingly digital world which is one of the reasons it's experiencing such increased popularity.”

Byron Bay artist, and winner of the 2022 Ocean Shores Art Expo, Mon Manabu spent the last five years focusing on creating photographic prints, which saw her spend hours in front of the computer. She has returned to making art with her hands by enrolling in the Diploma of Ceramics at TAFE NSW Lismore.

“I’ve been a creative artist for almost 20 years, but I missed the feeling of physically shaping a work of art. Working with natural materials is incredibly soothing and it’s important to me that my profession is something I enjoy, so I’ll definitely be incorporating these new works into my business,” Ms Manabu said.

“I’m so grateful for the expert teachers who have helped me develop these new skills. What I’ve learnt about art theory and practice, handbuilding and wheelforming clay, glazing and firing has been critical to build a series of completed works.

“Now being able to display my work in a public exhibition is incredibly exciting. I’ve gained so much confidence throughout my time at TAFE, thanks to the support of my teachers, and it’s great to see my hard work come to life.”

The exhibition continues until Saturday 27 November 2022, at Elevator ARI, 3 Rural St, Lismore.

Media contact: Sarah Dibdin, Communications Specialist, sarah.dibdin5@tafensw.edu.au, 0404 291 238