Scott Rutherford: Boaty McBoat Ceramic Exhibition
Featuring Modern Nefs and Face Jugs
Opening Reception: Saturday, April 12, from 5-9pm
On View: April 12-27
Morean Center for Clay
420 22nd St. South
What is a Nef? They are classic ship sculptures created by silversmiths used in the medieval times for royal banquets. The sculptures doubled as condiment and spice holders. They were traditionally sailing vessels made to be disassembled for serving salt and exotic spices to guests for fine meals.
Scott Rutherford, the ceramic artist on display, loved the idea of sculptures that could serve a functional purpose. He said, “This inspired me to create modern versions that would be sculptural objects that could be used functionally as drinking and food service sets. I want the vessels to be interesting sculptures that are proudly displayed when not in use.”
When needed for a dinner or drinking party, these Nefs are disassembled to become a fully functional set of dishes.
“I try to match the nationality of the vessel with the needs of the food or beverage to be served for the cuisine or occasion,” said Rutherford.
This exhibition is free and open to the public from Wednesday to Saturday,10am-5pm, and Sunday, 12-4pm. The exhibition will be on display in the gallery and retail space from April 12 through April 27.
Artist Statement
Scott Rutherford: Rottenstone Pottery
Arroyo Seco, NM
https://rottenstonegallery.com/
I create high fire functional stoneware pottery that is an aesthetic blend of Japanese tea ceramics and American folk craft pottery. I studied both of these ceramic traditions while going to graduate school at the University of New Mexico.
Love of history, culture, and a fascination with folk pottery traditions throughout the world are a constant wellspring of inspiration in my work. Models, whimsical creations, curios, religious objects and historical pottery forms whose functional purpose is shrouded in the past are sources of creative exploration in my studio.
Potters have been given the job of producing hand crafted useful objects that are both beautiful and functional in the preparation and serving of food and beverages. If done correctly the potter’s artistic creativity can imbue pots with more than pure function. They can make work that allows feasts, parties and everyday meals to become fun and show off the artistic individuality of the user. By drawing on the creative inspiration of artisans from the past I want to create pots that not only serve food and drink but stimulate conversation, artistic appreciation, and create a sense of personal individuality with the user.
