MAG&M Society Ceramics Spotlight Series #4 Cathy Franzi
In celebration of MAG&M’s unique collection of Australian ceramics, MAG&M Society has invited ceramicists, gallerists and specialists to present a series of illustrated talks, focussing on some of the key artists, ideas and techniques represented in MAG&M’s collection. This special talk series is sure to delight and inspire Members, artists and the community alike. Funds raised from all Society events support MAG&M’s permanent art and ceramics collections. Each guest speaker is also invited to discuss two works from the collection which inspire them.
Cathy Franzi is a ceramic artist based in Canberra and a recent PhD graduate in the Ceramics workshop at the School of Art & Design at the Australian National University. Through her work, Cathy investigates ways in which representations of Australian flora on the ceramic vessel can express current botanical and environmental knowledge. She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Sydney and this background informs the scientific approach she brings to her art practice.
“The subject of my work stems from doing what I love, that is to be in nature, and plants are my particular fascination. With this attention comes a recognition of environments under threat and species in rapid decline. My work aims to reflect the textural and formal qualities of plants and refer in some way to the connections between them, ecosystems they inhabit, and attributed cultural values.” Cathy researches an environment and its flora primarily through fieldwork, supported by data searches and an engagement with botanical research centres such as the Australian National Herbarium and the National Seedbank. Her studio exploration of material, form, technique and placement embodies this knowledge. Cathy is represented in Sydney by Sabbia Gallery and in Canberra by Beaver Galleries.
MAG&M has a major installation work by Cathy Franzi in its collection (pictured above). MAG&M’s ceramics collection reflects the diversity of contemporary ceramics practice in Australia, ranging from vessel forms and functional work to sculptural pieces. The collection of over 400 pieces now represents the work of some 160 artists, revealing the nuances and shifts in studio ceramics over a 60 year period. Since 1986, MAG&M Society has generously donated over 50 of those works, ensuring that this living collection represents significant works by our contemporary artists.
Refreshments will be served. Please contact for any special dietary requirements.
Cost: $20 Members or $30 Non-Members
