Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Chronicles the history of the last half century of ceramic art as seen through the works of some 70 artists from the Marer Collection. Essays discuss artistic and historical issues such as the unity of the designer and maker and new stylistic avenues from the 1960s to the present. Includes color plates and a checklist of the entire collection. Annotation copyright by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

This extended catalog for the exhibition of the same name describes the visual and verbal legacy of ceramics from 1940 to 1990. The Marer collection of nearly 900 pieces is eclectic and includes American, British, and Asian ceramics. However, the book emphasizes what is described as "the collection's core," a focus on the Otis Group from California active during the mid 1950s. Many of the most noted figures in modern ceramics are highlighted in this luxuriously illustrated catalog. Three essays by expert curators in the field of ceramics break down and analyze the collection by periods categorized as the studio potter era, the Otis era, and contemporary ceramics. The essays are well researched and documented with appropriate photographs of many of the artists working in their studios. There are more than 70 nearly full page color plates of the works in the exhibition, which visually attest to the importance of Marer's collection. A handy glossary of terms assists the novice in understanding technical words used in the essays. Also included is an exhibition checklist as well as an important checklist of the entire collection. This book is both a visual treat and an important source for researchers in the field. General; undergraduate through professional. A. C. Holcombe; Kansas State University

Booklist Review

Scripps College recently acquired the distinguished Marer Collection of contemporary ceramic art. Selected pieces are showcased in this handsome book and in an exhibition that will travel across the country for a two-year period. To illuminate the development of the collection, essays trace the movement away from a craft tradition toward innovative new forms, placing these works--spanning a half-century but dominated by the powerful work of Peter Voulkos--in a historical context. Fred Marer's unceasing and ongoing acquisition led to this unique survey of early studio pottery (primarily works from 1940 through 1960), abstract expressionist-inspired sculptures and vessels (produced by artists associated with the Otis Art Institute), and a diverse mix of recent work reflecting Marer's particular sensibility. An incisive look at contemporary clay. --Alice Joyce

Author notes provided by Syndetics

ART