Silk and steel delight

Press, 7 May 1981, Page 9

Silk and steel delight

Current exhibitions: at the C.S.A. Gallery until May 10. PORCELAIN, byValerie Crichton; PAINTED SILK, by Lee Trusttum and Sally Spence. Reviewed by David Brokenshire. This is a sumptuous exhibition — perhaps a little overcrowded but the delicacy of the silk is complemented by the beauty of the porcelain. The soft sheen of silk seems enough in its own right but it has been skillfully enhanced by the glorious, soft colours and precisely fitting designs of the two artists. Cushions, screens, scarves, hangings, padded jackets, parasols —

they must be seen to be believed. Of the 135 pieces of pottery I admired the fantastic blue glaze on the Antarctic landscapes. The pierced, unglazed porcelain was also finely achieved and the Canterbury landscape boxes with the warmth of the Shino-type ‘ glaze made a striking group. However, I feel that less diversity and a more vigorous selection would have made a stronger show. ROAD MARKSi paintings by Pat Unger. This is a quietly enjoyable small exhibition. The artist has a nice colour sense but for me the quaintly titled series

called, “Brushes Cleaned,” were the highlights. The joy of applying the drips and splashes over the finely orchestrated background is delightfully communicated. STAINED SILENCE — an installation by Pauline Rhodes. The total wall space of the small Print Room has been covered by small squares of paper or cloth or steel. It is a superb visual experience and the title is unusually telling. Some-of the small patterned squares almost sing and the dark patina on the steel panels almost give the dong of a great bell. This is certainly one of the finest visual delights of the year.