Sir
David Attenborough about Rupert Spira:
I first came accross the work of Rupert Spira about fifteen
years ago and was instantly struck by its purity of form.
His pots had a presence and balance which revealed a master´s
eye. In the years which have followed that encounter, this
first impression has been constantly reaffirmed.
Spira is undoubtedly one of the leading ceramicists working
in Britain today. Despite his success he continues to experiment,
pushing forward the frontiers of his art as he responds
to new influences, invents new solutions and searches for
even greater perfection.
There is an austere beauty about his work which is wholly
classical. He has explored a range of glazes from an understated
celadon grey through blue and red to the intense matt black
used for the tea service commissioned by Sir Robert and Lady
Sainsbury.
His work continues to evolve with a range of experiments,
culminating most recently in the
“ poems vessels” which are surprising and perhaps
a little disconcerting coming from a ceramicist normally so
understated and quiet in tone. It is clear that Rupert Spira
has established a unique place in contemporary ceramics. His
development has been full of unexpected solutions to form
and colour which delight those most familiar with his work.
He is an artist whose creativity gives me great pleasure.
Further information on Rupert Spira´s work to be found
in the publication
" Ceramics Art and Perception ", Issue 66.
Rupert Spira - curriculum vitae
1960 |
Born in London |
1978- 80 |
BA Hons Degree at West Surrey College of Art and Design
under Henry Hammond
|
1980-82 |
Trained with Michael Cardew at Wenford Bridge Pottery |
1983 |
Final year at West Surrey College of Art and Design |
1984 |
Set up Pottery at Lower Froyle, Hampshire |
1988 |
Set up studio making hand-made tiles |
1996 |
Set up Pottery at More, Shropshire |
|