A Conversation Between John Gill and Amy Bennett
The Wellsville Creative Arts Center is proud to announce that esteemed ceramic artists John Gill and Amy Bennett will be swapping ceramic tips during their workshop “Totally Flip-jip-u-lar” on December 10. Showcasing alterations and twists, Gill and Bennett will be improvising throughout the day off forms made by each other – passing ceramics back and forth to generate conversation. The title, “Totally Flip-jip-u-lar”, while inspired by Gill’s use of unique vernacular, implies the two artists will be mixing it up, and engaging creativity with the audience discussing their practices as makers and ways to achieve artistic movement. “You gotta make it dance,” Gill likes to say. More specifically, the workshop will be held from 10:00-3:00, and there will be a break from 12:00-1:00 for lunch. Bring questions, a notebook, and an open mind to participate in this one-of-a-kind experience. This workshop is free to attend, but please RSVP at Wellsville-Creative-Arts-Center.com to reserve a spot.
Originally from Renton, Washington, Gill achieved his MFA from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University in 1975. After teaching ceramics at Alfred University for 38 years, John Gill recently retired and is most known for his rocktacious personality. This personality is projected into his practice through bold ceramic forms and geometric blocks of color. “He often speaks in the future,” says a former student. “It sounds a little ridiculous in the present moment, but then the advice he gives clicks a day or two later.” His work takes chances and tests boundaries – incorporating patterns and texture in unexpected ways. While many of his forms are hand built or made with the help of molds he’s created, each piece is different from the next. Represented by many galleries and museums nationally, John continues to create at his home studio in Alfred, New York alongside his partner Andrea where they both have passions for traveling to workshops and art centers across the country to teach together.
Similarly Bennett also achieved her MFA from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University and graduated in 2014. Her work is heavily inspired by Egyptian and pre-Columbian art. While many of her ceramic forms are strong in color and layered with textures, they are pedestal-like in nature – elevating an ordinary dish to emulate higher status. The colors of these works often complement food the ceramics hold. Bennett says, “I’m a foodie. Diners are my favorite, where everyone is proud of that special dish. The pottery I create bolsters the triumph of such humble dishes.” But she finds her creativity is often explored through more than just ceramics. Where many overlook the art of communications and organization, Bennett is well known for her creative problem solving skills. Viewed through these eyes, her creativity helps her navigate daily life as well as create tactile objects. Currently, she is the Chief Operating Officer of Northern Lights Candle Company, and has recently started to make her own metal jewelry. “Living among art and art supplies fortifies regular creative thinking,” she says. “Where I am now… is on a perpetual creative journey.”
Overall, “Totally Flip-jip-u-lar” will encourage those who are curious about these makers journey’s to gather openly with questions. The combination of Gill and Bennett’s experience’s as artists will culminate to form plentiful conversation and improvisation, thus impacting the attendees in a creative, mind-stimulating environment. Again, this workshop is free to attend at the Wellsville Creative Arts Center, but please RSVP at Wellsville-Creative-Arts-Center.com. https://www.wellsville-creative-arts-center.com/workshops.html#/