Primitive and Abstract Pottery
This distinctive and extraordinary collection of art pottery is rare. The pieces are either primitive or abstract. It has been an endless and ongoing project of a passionate and knowledgeable collector who has gathered together pieces found in a variety of estate sales, galleries, museums and private collection.
These works run the gamut from the passionate work of developing students, to the apprentices of the father of abstract expressionism, Peter Voulkos. Producing an enormous repertoire and proudly represented in this collection, are the brilliant works of Jay Strommen of Chicago, who worked side by side with Voulkos in Japan and the States. His output represents some of the most sophisticated and significant work of our generation.
Also included are works of Nancy Jurs, Warren McKenzie and Ginny Marsh. Included is a piece by Robert Pulley, who has produced enormous sculptures replicating stone. His pieces use techniques somewhat like Jun Kaneko to produce behemoth works without imploding. More conservative, yet quite exacting, are the works of Scott Campbell of Indiana. Robert Carlson is represented, a household name for years, who is still producing only the finest art. He works at times in collaboration with Marilee Hall. Another prolific and popular sculptor is George Whitten of Ohio. You will see one of his best pieces in this collection.
Other categories include European artists, along with a collection of Asian works created by rising stars. Some Korean pieces have values escalating by the day. The front covers of world-wide journals have featured these artists. There are several pieces by these artists in the collection.
In addition, there are numerous pieces that share an unknown provenance – some ancient, some newly crafted. They all include the characteristics of art that are timeless. Some have survived for generations, free from damage of any kind.
The pieces, whether from large collections of abstract expressionism or of primitive works, undergo great scrutiny. All have been studied in great detail for fine form, balance, density, weight and originality, as well as the approach to their glazing. Complete documentation has been provided where possible. These are some of the most important characteristics found in fine works of clay art. None are representational in any way or have any vestiges of recognizable figurations. They are all original in conception.
It is hoped that the clay community will realize and appreciate the significance and importance of this collection, and that many novices and the most seasoned of artists will find works to add to, and enhance their already distinguished collections.
Larson Gallery of Abstract Clay
Indianapolis, Indiana