Gerhard Swart and Anthony Harris established their
partnership in 1997. Their respective backgrounds in fine art, printmaking and
ceramics, form an excellent basis for designing, coiling, slip casting,
texturing and decorating their unique range of earthenware vessels and pots.
Bold, geometric African motifs are powerful themes in Gerhard and Anthony's
work, yet they are also intrigued and inspired by the history and simplicity
of Eastern ceramics. Explaining these dual influences in the context of modern
design, they say, "The parallel between the bold designs of Africa and
the sophisticated minimalism of the East, supplements a contemporary
design."
The beauty of form and texture in their vessels is exceptional. They resemble
the shape of tubers, bulbs, and cloves of garlic, appearing to show the
evolved textures and thin lines caused by soil erosion, or they have the shiny
surfaces of spring onions.
In 1999, Gerhard and Anthony were one of seven winning finalists in the
'House and Leisure Design Awards' for their large earthenware vessels with a
strong African influence, featuring relief patterns of small triangles. The
aim of the Awards was to promote African design with an international and
contemporary appeal.
The following artworks are a representation of the Artist's body of work. A wider
selection
is available for viewing at Afrikana Gallery in South Melbourne. |
