Life with clay

de Allan Collier, Alan C. Elder

This retrospective monograph on work of Jan and Helga Grove accompanies the most extensive exhibition ever held, and features works made from 1953 to 2005, shortly before they retired. Born in Germany, both Jan and Helga Grove trained and worked there in the late 1940's and 1950?s, before moving to Canada. From 1966 to 2009 they operated studios in Colwood, and later in Metchosin (British Columbia) where they produced pottery with bright colours and matte glazes, often decorated with geometric and abstract designs. Their work was exhibited at Expo '67 and other national exhibitions and sold across the country. Also featured are several experimental pieces highlighting Jan's modernist forms and glazes and Helga's unique geometric and fable animal decorations. For over 40 years, they also produced clay sculptures assembled from wheel-thrown and hand formed parts. Often whimsical and thought-provoking commentaries on human existence, the sculptures are at once a synthesis of unique artistic expression and advanced technical skill. The publication contains photographs, artwork, and other historical material documenting the work and lives of these extraordinary artists.00Exhibition: Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, Canada (21.01. - 28.05.2017).