Final Firing Exhibition Leaflet 1990

THE FINAL FIRING

Anagama Pottery by Estelle and Bruce Martin

HAWKE’S BAY EXHIBITION CENTRE – HOLT ROOM

September 7 – October 22

Estelle and Bruce Martin have just completed their eighth and final firing of Anagama pottery. Selected pieces from this firing and examples from each of their previous firings make up the exhibition.

Anagama (‘ana’ meaning hole or cave and ‘gama’ meaning kiln) is an ancient process first delevoped [developed] in Korea about the 4th century AD. Traditionally fired with pine wood for 8-16 days to produce a very high temperature, the resulting pots are marvellously coloured by the flame, ash from the wood, and the smoke from this long firing. The natural colours of anagama pottery blend with and enhance the colours of nature in a way that cannot be achieved with any other type of firing.

Bruce and Estelle Martin have been potting since about 1957, becoming full-time potters since 1965. Their careers have been marked with many successful exhibitions in New Zealand, Japan, and Canada. Bruce has received two merit awards – the Fletcher Challenge in 1987 and Fletcher Brownbuilt 1986 and this year was principal award winner in the coveted United Group – Suter Art  Award at the 32nd national exhibition of the N Z Society of Potters.

Estelle attained Merit Awards in the Norsewear Art Awards exhibitions in 1988 and 1990.

Working from their Hastings property – Kamaka, Estelle and Bruce have grown the wood required to sustain the extended kiln firings.

To complement the display of pottery, a video documenting the ‘Final Firing’ and the anagama process is being produced for visitors to view. Estelle and Bruce will also present two slide talks on Tuesday 11 October at 12.10; and on Sunday 16 October at 2.30pm.

Anagama pots from the final firing will be available for purchase.

A Songs of the Land series exhibition.

Exhibition Preview: – Thursday September 6 at 5.30pm