Fine exhibition of jewellery

Press, 17 December 1980, Page 10

Fine exhibition of jewellery

Two exhibitions — Pottery by John Madden. Jewellery by Michael Ayling, at the C.S.A. Gallery until December 21. Reviewed by David Brokenshire.

John Madden is showing 116 pieces of salt-glazed wood-fired stoneware with prices ranging from $lO to $3OO. Largely the pieces are domestic ware but also included are sculptures which would be enhanced in a garden setting. > . ■ The work exhibits all the strength and charm of salt-glazing, particularly when oxide washes have been applied to the ware before firing. The large storage vessel is superb, the scale of the salting and the richness of the glaze enhancing the form. I also enjoyed the small beakers and the generous full form of. one large pouring bowl. » • Tn general I. found ; the exhibition disappointing. Too many' of the, bowls have a weak flabby form with no 7 hint of contiunment. Many of the storage pots would be improved with the use of a simple

slip glaze inside on both the lid and the body of the piece. I feel that in spite of the evident strength of the throwing all the forms and finishing need objective scrutiny. Michael Ayling is showing 65 pieces of jewellery, prices ranging from $4O to S2BO. Most of the work is in silver with a little gold, but with a wide range of precious and semi-precious stones. Moonstone, onyx, carnellian, agate, garnet, amethyst — the list sounds like an inventoiy for a king’s ransom. It is the manner in which these stones have been assenvbled that forms the interest and intrigue. . , ’ . A wide range of rings is offered, but it is in the sculptural pendants that I found the greatest interest. These are sculptures on a small scale, intricately and delightfully worked. It was charming to see- ebony>.and silver mounted as pendants. The sense of movement in the “Bone Pendant” is moving. This is' a quiet' exhibition, modestly priced fur unique pieces, containing much of promise for future exhibitions.