Shadow Play by Meg Lumley
Brisbane-based ceramic artist, Meg Lumley, explores the relationship between solid forms, negative space and geometric motifs for her latest collection, Shadow Play.
Words: Hande Renshaw I Photography: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
Meg Lumley in her Brisbane studio. Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
A piece from Meg Lumley’s upcoming exhibition, Shadow Play. Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
‘My time is often spent mulling over binaries and unearthing the spectrum in-between. Nothing is ever truly black and white. Shadow Play is a joyful exploration of this idea through the medium of clay,’ says Meg Lumley. Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
Brisbane-based Meg Lumley, the ceramic artist behind Nice Clay by Meg, crafts ceramic pieces that examine the equilibrium between tangible and empty spaces, incorporating geometric designs and natural shapes. While her previous work predominantly revolved around functional pieces, her upcoming exhibition, Shadow Play, delves into the realm of sculptural forms, ensuring that a beautifully shaped piece serves not only as a decorative item, but also as something to be savoured in daily life.
‘I’ve woven in more sculptural and decorative elements into my design process, creating a balance between functional art and sculptural forms. I’ve enjoyed bringing more architectural motifs into my designs, and testing the infinite possibilities that can be created with clay bodies,’ shares Meg.
The works included in Shadow Play materialise as a tangible representation of what arises from the acceptance of spaces in between, delving into the complexities of shape, utility, and the interplay between light and shadow.
‘It’s full of solid forms with negative space, geometric motifs turned organic through hand touch and clay memory, and glaze finishes with spontaneous flecks of contract. On a design level, this ideology is an engaging way to create. In social settings, it’s an important lens for a richer life. May we all embrace subtle differences and lovely contradictions,’ Meg says.
The collection was first inspired from a desire to create a collection of vessels, which are all completely unique. ‘I decided that I would pause my regular creative work and allow myself to delve into this whole heartedly’, says Meg, who tapped into her playful side, experimenting with different forms and shapes. In the process, Meg discovered innovative methods to integrate her distinctive scalloped patterns, enhancing them by introducing carved openings in numerous pieces.
‘I think one of the most enjoyable parts of this collection will be when my show is on. I’m a tactile person, so being able to share my work with friends and other creatives is beyond special.’
Visit ‘Shadow Play’ by Meg Lumley
Opening night: September 29, 6 – 9pm. Exhibition closes October 4
Shop 2, California Lane
22 McLahlan Street
Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
‘This collection was first inspired by wanting to create a collection of vessels, all completely unique. I decided that I would pause my regular creative work and allow myself to delve into this whole heartedly,’ says Meg Lumley. Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
A piece from Meg Lumley’s upcoming exhibition, Shadow Play. Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
A piece from Meg Lumley’s upcoming exhibition, Shadow Play. Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
The collection features three core glazes: tortoiseshell, white speckle, and a matte cream with fiery russet flecks. Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
“Creating in a way that challenges me and also restores my energy has been incredibly satisfying, and will definitely influence my future work.”
A fluted bowl from Meg Lumley’s upcoming exhibition, Shadow Play. Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg
‘I’ve enjoyed bringing more architectural motifs into my designs, and testing the infinite possibilities that can be created with clay bodies.’ Photo: Courtesy of Nice Clay by Meg