Sylvia Halpern© 1918 – 2008
In days gone by, Warrandyte was synonomous with the Potters Cottage (1958 – 2004). So what better exhibition to open the new Manningham Gallery than a tribute to that old Warrandyte institution. This is such a nostalgic exhibition. Apparently many visitors have expressed their delight in the opportunity it affords them to renew their aquaintance with the Potters Cottage. With an extensive collection of ceramics made by its founders, black and white footage of setting up the cottage and glass cabinets rich with photos and written material, Potters Cottage: a tribute offers a great insight into the importance of ceramics in the area.
Sylvia Halpern©
Sylvia Halpern (Deborah Halpern’s mother) is well represented with birds, figures and vessels.
Sylvia Halpern©
Gus McLaren© 1923 – 2008
Work of Potters Cottage founders Gus McLaren, Reg Preston, Phyl Dunn, Charles Wiltom, John and Betty Hipwell and Artur Halpern, shows the diversity of what was created there.
Gus McLaren©
Reg Preston© (detail)
Reg Preston©
Later ceramists have acknowledged the contribution Potters Cottage made to their arts practice. In a catalogue accompanying the exhibition Paul Davis is quoted as saying,
Potters Cottage was ‘Camelot’ for us; a satellite for potters to gravitate to. You only had to go into the gallery to see the work of practically all those who were working at that time. For both young students – who came in cavalcades – and professionals, it was an inspiration, and a welcoming and generous place. page 131, Potters Cottage: a tribute by Grace Cochrane, 2012
Another later ceramist, Alexandra (Hipwell) Copeland first came to my attention through her business Weft which she runs with her husband Leigh. They sell magnificent tribal arts and textiles from Afghanistan. I was fascinated to learn of her early exposure to ceramics at the Potters Cottage. Her bowls in this exhibition show an exemplary use of glaze and colour. The influence of Reg Preston, who introduced her to Italian maiolica pots is evident here. See page 134 Potters Cottage: a tribute by Grace Cochrane, 2012
Alexandra Copeland©, bowl (detail)
Alexandra Copeland©, bowl (detail)
Deborah Halpern ©
Much loved local artist Deborah Halpern has a couple of pieces in the show. For her, Potters Cottage set the scene for a successful career in ceramics and sculpture.
Manningham’s new Gallery space.
The new Manningham Gallery is divided into two distinct spaces. Its designers have ensured that multi media presentations can be included in exhibitions. This facility is put to good use for the Potters Cottage exhibition. Make sure that you have plenty of time when you visit this exhibition. It’s well worth taking your time and absorbing all of what’s on offer.
Potters Cottage: a tribute
5th September – 10th November
Manningham Art Gallery, Manningham City Square, 687 Doncaster Road, Doncaster, Victoria. Melway Ref: 47 F1
Gallery Hours Tuesday – Saturday 11.00 am – 5pm. Free Entry
