Georgia Stevenson's work is a testament to the power of embracing the unexpected and the beauty of the unknown. Her journey from architecture to ceramics showcases a unique fusion of disciplines, where her architectural background provides a strong foundation for her material-led practice. With a keen eye for process and chance, Stevenson's work is a celebration of the materials she sources from local construction sites, transforming them into tiles and objects that are both functional and artistic.
A Material-Led Approach
Stevenson's approach to ceramics is deeply rooted in material research and making. Her Breaking Ground research project, which has become a cornerstone of her practice, began with a simple curiosity about the origins of materials and their unique properties. By experimenting with local clay from a family friend's house, she discovered the potential of a material-led approach, testing its various applications and mixing it with commercial clay to achieve specific outcomes.
As she transitioned from the Sunshine Coast to Melbourne, Stevenson's focus shifted to urban contexts, where she found an abundance of construction and demolition materials. This led her to explore the use of brick, concrete, and glass, as well as construction by-products, in her work. The process of sourcing and transforming these materials into usable ceramic forms has become a collaborative effort, involving clients and collaborators who appreciate the unique and unpredictable nature of the final products.
Overcoming Technical Challenges
One of the biggest technical challenges Stevenson has encountered is the incorporation of non-plastic materials into the clay body. By adding materials that lack plasticity, she has had to adapt her techniques, moving away from wheel throwing to hand-building methods like rolling. This has allowed her to embrace the material's unique characteristics and find new ways to work with them.
Architecture and Beyond
Stevenson's creations have found their way into architectural projects, primarily as tiles. Her work with Studio Bright on a 20-square-metre residential project showcases the potential of her materials in larger-scale applications. She envisions her work being used in landscaping, urban design, and public space contexts, where the provenance and history of the materials can be celebrated and shared with visitors.
Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration
Stevenson's commitment to knowledge sharing is evident through her material catalogue and Alternative Ceramics Supply platform. By documenting the characteristics and data of various materials, she is empowering other potters to explore their surroundings and create meaningful work. Her collaborations with craftspeople and architects have led to exciting new uses for her materials, such as using them as pigments for fabric dyeing and concrete blends.
A New Perspective on Waste
Stevenson's work challenges the traditional view of waste materials. By transforming demolition materials into functional and beautiful objects, she gives them new life and character. Her clients and collaborators appreciate the local and meaningful nature of her work, often sharing the stories behind the materials with visitors. This shift in perspective, from seeing materials as waste to recognizing their potential, is a powerful aspect of her practice.
In conclusion, Georgia Stevenson's work is a testament to the beauty of embracing the unexpected and the power of material research. Her unique approach to ceramics, driven by a deep understanding of materials and a willingness to experiment, has led to captivating creations that challenge traditional boundaries. Through her collaborations and knowledge-sharing efforts, Stevenson is shaping a future where waste materials are transformed into valuable resources, offering a new perspective on what it means to create art and architecture.
