Regular readers will have noticed my posts of late have displayed and interest and appreciation for the three-dimensional in art and crafts (here, and here). This post continues that interest with a first visit to Maximillian William gallery to see some fabulous ceramic forms and sculptural textile weavings. The pieces on display publicly for the first time are from the personal collection of Dr Brian Harding. Harding has single-mindedly collected the work of a select group of artists across the development of their practice whilst paying no attention to trends. The works are displayed in Harding's home, a domestic setting, where he lives with, and enjoys the objects naturally, not placing them preciously behind glass as they would be in a museum environment. The Magdalene Odundo ceramic forms have a strong, almost stately presence lined up in formation. The shapes were particularly tactile and appealing with such beautiful lines and form. I felt the same way about the Hans Coper pots also on display which also held their own and complemented those of Odundo and Lee. A new name for me to research further was Peter Collingwood represented here by the most ethereally light, architectural textiles. The patterns Collingwood conjures in his weaving and construction of the thread are truly wonderful. These works are strongly reminiscent of those of Lenore Tawney (here), discovered by myself earlier this year, not far from Maxillian William also in Fitzrovia at Alison Jacques Gallery. This small exhibition shows Dr Harding to be a man of discernment, and a great curator with a very good eye.
