Artists in the community

Ceramics students visit active studio

Last week Year 9 Ceramics students visited artist Valerie Restarick at her open studio in North Carlton. Valerie explained to students what is was like to be a practicing artist working in a studio that is open to the public. She said, 'I enjoy people to coming into my space and looking around at the work I have been making'. Valerie discussed with students the ceramic pieces she makes for gallery exhibitions and other work she creates for more commercial purposes, such as unique, one of a kind plates and bowls.

Students had the opportunity to watch Valerie working on the pottery wheel to create a clay plate and also look at work that was ready to be fired in her backyard kiln.

It is a valuable experience for students to get out into the community and talk to practising artists in their studio space. Experiences such as this allow students to see the possibilities in being part of the art community and talk about the creation of ceramic pieces, bringing back inspiration for their own work in class.

If you have the chance take a look at Valerie's website or pop into her studio for a visit. http://valerierestarick.com/  http://valerierestarick.com/

Peta Sirec

Visual Arts Faculty