The Spirit of Ceramics: A journey of Healing and Artistry at Manarat Al Saadiyat
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi recently unveiled two captivating exhibitions at Manarat Al Saadiyat: Design Letters: Neon-Neon and The Spirit of Ceramics. The latter, curated by renowned artist Huma Farley and her students from the Abu Dhabi Pottery Foundation, showcases approximately 50 exquisite pottery pieces, each telling a story of resilience, creativity, and cultural heritage. The exhibition, which runs until the 28th of this month, is a testament to the transformative power of art.
For Huma Farley, this exhibition is deeply personal. In an interview with Al-Ittihad,she revealed that the journey to this showcase began three years ago,following a tragic accident that claimed the life of her daughter. “The artwork was the only savior that took me out of the pain and agony of loss,” she shared.“It helped my broken heart in alleviating the pain and trying to forget.”
The pieces on display are a fusion of diverse techniques and inspirations. One standout is a plate crafted from “paper clay,” a delicate yet resilient medium. Another piece, formed from multiple layers of pottery, showcases the versatility of soft clay, which “responds to the work and takes the desired shape more than others.”
Among the highlights is a striking piece inspired by Japanese artistry, titled Raku. Composed of intricately assembled fragments, it mimics the appearance of metalwork while paying homage to Japanese traditions. In contrast, other works reflect the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern civilization, blending ancient techniques with contemporary designs.
farley also emphasized the unique nature of pottery dough, explaining that each artwork demands a distinct blend. “Every work of art requires a different pottery dough from others,” she noted. “This is also followed by the shape, design, and colors that are then added to the piece.”
Pottery, as Farley eloquently described, is one of the oldest art forms in history.Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect the past with the present.“It expresses the deep connection of history with clay through its modern and practical pieces,” she said. “their style is renewed from earthy elements, frequently enough incorporating a scene from the Middle East.”
The exhibition not only celebrates the artistry of pottery but also serves as a poignant reminder of its therapeutic potential. For Farley, it is a tribute to her daughter and a testament to the healing power of creativity.
| Exhibition Highlights |
|—————————|
| Title: The Spirit of Ceramics |
| Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi |
| Duration: Until 28th of this month |
| Featured Artist: Huma Farley |
| Number of Pieces: Approximately 50 |
| Key Techniques: Paper clay, Raku, layered pottery |
| Inspirations: Japanese art, Middle Eastern civilization |
Visitors to The Spirit of Ceramics will find themselves immersed in a world where art transcends pain, history meets modernity, and clay becomes a canvas for storytelling. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the transformative power of pottery at Manarat Al Saadiyat.
What’s your favorite pottery technique? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
The Spirit of Ceramics: A Journey of Healing and Artistry at Manarat Al Saadiyat
Table of Contents
In a celebration of creativity and resilience, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi recently unveiled The Spirit of Ceramics, an exhibition curated by renowned artist Huma Farley and her students from the Abu Dhabi Pottery Foundation. Showcasing approximately 50 exquisite pottery pieces, the exhibition blends ancient techniques with modern artistry, drawing inspiration from Japanese and Middle Eastern traditions. Too delve deeper into the themes of healing, cultural heritage, and the transformative power of pottery, we sat down with Dr. Leila Al-Mansoori, a ceramics historian and expert in Middle Eastern art.
The Healing Power of Pottery
Senior Editor: Dr. Al-Mansoori, thank you for joining us. The exhibition is deeply personal for huma Farley,as it emerged from her journey of healing after the loss of her daughter. Can you speak to the therapeutic aspects of pottery?
Dr. Leila al-Mansoori: absolutely. pottery has long been recognized as a therapeutic medium. The tactile nature of working with clay allows individuals to channel their emotions into something tangible. For Huma, the act of creating became a way to process her grief and find solace.the repetitive motions of shaping clay can be meditative, offering a sense of calm and focus. Moreover, the physicality of the process—kneading, molding, and sculpting—can be incredibly grounding, helping individuals reconnect with themselves and the world around them.
Cultural Inspirations: bridging East and West
Senior Editor: The exhibition features pieces inspired by both Japanese and Middle Eastern traditions. How do these cultural influences manifest in the works on display?
Dr. Leila Al-Mansoori: The fusion of Japanese and Middle Eastern influences is truly remarkable. As a notable example, the Raku technique, which originated in Japan, is evident in one of the standout pieces. This method involves rapid firing and cooling, resulting in unique, crackled glazes that mimic the appearance of metalwork.Conversely, many pieces draw from Middle Eastern motifs, such as intricate geometric patterns and earthy color palettes. These elements reflect the region’s rich artistic heritage while also showcasing how traditional techniques can be reinterpreted in contemporary contexts.
Innovative Techniques: Paper Clay and Layered Pottery
Senior Editor: The exhibition highlights innovative techniques like paper clay and layered pottery. Can you explain how these methods contribute to the uniqueness of the pieces?
Dr. Leila Al-Mansoori: Certainly. Paper clay is a interesting medium that combines clay with paper fibers, resulting in a lightweight yet durable material. This allows artists to create delicate, intricate forms that might not be possible with traditional clay. Layered pottery, on the other hand, involves building up multiple layers of clay to achieve depth and texture. This technique is notably effective in capturing the complexity of emotions and stories, as seen in Huma’s work. Both methods push the boundaries of what pottery can achieve, blending functionality with artistic expression.
Pottery as a Storytelling Medium
senior Editor: Huma Farley describes pottery as a canvas for storytelling. How do the pieces in this exhibition convey narratives?
Dr. Leila Al-Mansoori: Each piece in the exhibition tells a story,whether it’s through its form,texture,or design. for example, the layered pottery works often symbolize the layers of human experience—joy, sorrow, resilience, and hope. The use of earthy tones and organic shapes connects the pieces to the natural world, evoking a sense of timelessness. Additionally,the incorporation of Middle Eastern scenes and motifs serves as a reminder of the region’s rich cultural history. Through these elements, the pottery becomes more than just an object; it becomes a vessel for shared human experiences.
The Future of Pottery in the Modern World
Senior Editor: what role do you see pottery playing in the modern world, especially in the context of art therapy and cultural preservation?
Dr. Leila Al-Mansoori: Pottery has immense potential in both art therapy and cultural preservation. As a therapeutic tool, it offers a unique way for individuals to express themselves and heal. In terms of cultural preservation, pottery serves as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing us to honor traditional techniques while exploring new possibilities. Exhibitions like The Spirit of Ceramics are crucial in keeping these traditions alive and relevant. They remind us that art is not just about aesthetics—it’s about connection, healing, and the enduring power of creativity.
don’t miss the opportunity to experience The Spirit of Ceramics at Manarat Al Saadiyat, running until the 28th of this month. For more information,visit Huma Farley’s website.
