“Firebox Vase,” by Jody Johnstone Submitted photo
“Into the Fire: Anagama Potters in the Circle of Jody Johnstone,” a display of pottery created by the ancient, wood-fired method — which many believe to be the finest pottery firing technique — will be on display Friday, March 22, through Sunday, April 28, in the UMF Art Gallery, at 246 Main St., on the campus of the University of Maine at Farmington. An opening reception is set for 4-7 p.m. Friday, March 22.
Johnstone discovered her love for wood-fired pots while living in Japan in her 20s and started a small collection. She then studied as an apprentice for two years with Living National Treasure Isezaki Jun in Bizen, Okayama, Japan. Isezaki-sensei has reignited global interest in the ancient Anagama hillside-cave style of kiln brought to Japan from China in the 5th century.
The art of Anagama pottery lies foremost in the placement of the vessels and objects within the tiered kiln. The orientation of the pieces in the kiln invite the flames while the hot ash and salts set loose to determine the pieces’ exquisite colors and textures.
After her apprenticeship, Johnstone moved to Maine and built a large Anagama kiln that she shares with a close-knit circle of potters, many from the Belfast area. This exhibition features the work of Kyla Cech, Andrea Dove, Miki Glasser, Becca Van Fleet Webb, Ellen Huie, Jody Johnstone, Betsy Levine, David Orser, Ellen Sedgwick, Cory Upton-Cosulich and Siem van der Ven. This diverse group of artists gather twice a year (in spring and autumn) for the intense weeks-long process of wood firing.
Gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays and by appointment.
For more information or to make an appointment email maline@maine.edu or call 207-778-1062.
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