It was most encouraging to see so many and varied makers and also members of NWP at ClayArt. The artists were at times extra ordinary and often alarming in my own case. I was sited next to a most charming young minimalist ceramic maker. The night before the show she was fully equipped with black and white paint, rollers and religiously ironed cloths to show her paper thin porcelain work against. She never displayed more than 12 pieces at a time. I don't think that we were deliberately juxtaposed. I would imagine that at least 2000 visitors came. It was fascinating noting their responses to what was on show. It became obvious that the sexes were clearly divided in their approach. Females were prepared to engage in discussion with makers, and also to buy. The majority of males seemed shy, as if not quite sure how to react, and apart from those with a deliberate interest, reluctant to get involved.
The number of dedicated collectors and Gallery owners appeared to be small, the regular customers who came were a welcome sight.
Because of my role as an exhibitor I was more or less glued to my stand. I didn't get as good look at the work of the other exhibitors as I would have liked. I did note that there was an increase in the amount of figurative work and I can only recall one stand of traditional slip ware. The Dutch and Danish exhibitors were quite sensational in their techniques. In general there seems to be a greater technical knowledge of ceramics.
Congratulations to Margaret and David Frith and their family for their organization and enthusiasm. The atmosphere was exciting and blessed with good weather.
Norman Mackinson
