John Roy at Masterworks Gallery
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An exhibition at Masterworks Gallery in Auckland showcases the new ceramic work by Tauranga-based artist John Roy.
Roy has been working with ceramics full time since graduating from Wanganui Polytechnic with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1997. He quickly developed a distinctive and original personal style based around hand built forms that use animal and architectural references to explore social and political issues.An exhibition at Masterworks Gallery in Auckland showcases the new ceramic work by Tauranga-based artist John Roy.
Roy has been working with ceramics full time since graduating from Wanganui Polytechnic with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1997. He quickly developed a distinctive and original personal style based around hand built forms that use animal and architectural references to explore social and political issues.Roy writes: 'My work revolves around iconic forms, their social memory and what personal associations my viewers can bring to these forms. I introduce my ideas or thoughts in a way that the viewer can relate to or interpret, while maintaining my social, political and aesthetic intentions for the work. In effect to provide enough information for the viewer to draw upon their personal experience to tell their own story.'
Roy's work is unique in New Zealand and easily identifiable. The appealing and unpretentious nature of his skilfully created forms is underpinned by their subtle social commentaries. His work holds instant visual appeal, yet carries ambiguous and multi-layered meanings that are only apparent under closer scrutiny.
In the past few years Roy's status as an 'established artist' has been solidified. Not only does he now have a significant exhibiting history behind him his work has also been selected for inclusion in several highly regarded collections in New Zealand, including that of the Auckland War Memorial Museum and the James Wallace Arts Trust.
More information
Bull - John Roy
21 August - 10 September 2008
Preview Wednesday 20 August from 5.30pm
Masterworks Gallery
77 Ponsonby Road
Ponsonby
Auckland