Two exhibitions at C.S.A.

Press, 17 July 1979, Page 7

Two exhibitions at C.S.A.

Pottery by Mirek Smisek, and jewellery and sculpture by Kobi Bosshard at the C.S.A. Gallery, until July 26. Reviewed by David Brokenshire. Over the last few years Christchurch has had few opportunities to seek Mirek Smisek s pots. Occasionally we have seen a few magnificent pieces — very large in size with superb salt-glazing — such as those in the exhibition, Art/74. With these masterworks in mind the present exhibition at first sight is disappointing. It is only by careful looking and handling the pieces that you will realise all the old skill is present and the pieces speak with a quiet firm voice. The sparkle is certainly present in two blue salt- ' glazed wint jars. The meticulous attention to detail is well shown in both of them. A dew field is the terracotta garden pots

and kite largest one," with 1 its warm* *f^une-flashed I surface and vehy apparent i delight in clay, is possibly i the finest piece shown. For a long time Kobi I Bosshard’s jewellery has j given a great deal of plea- j sure. The exhibition gives I an indication of this artist’s broadening interests. The art of jewellery can often be appreciated for its sculptural qualities and much of the interest in this how is the direct reference between the sculpture and the pendants. The careful display of linear sculpture has been skilfully aided by the shadows cast from the lighting. Together, they , did to form superb structures. The pendants freeze some of these moments into delightful suspended objects. Also displayed is a small collection of fine silver pieces which have already established Kobi Bosshard in the forefront of artists working in precious metals.