Form and Surface: African Ceramics from the William M. Itter Collection

This volume highlights a significant collection of African ceramics in the US, showcasing the excellence of women artists and exploring ceramics through various lenses of place, time, artistic media, and cultural identity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 09 October 2023
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

This remarkable volume showcases one of the most remarkable collections of African ceramics in the United States, renowned for its extensive range and remarkable representation of women's exceptional artistry in ceramics. It presents these ceramics through thoughtfully curated sections that examine ceramics through diverse perspectives of place, time, artistic mediums, and cultural identity. This lavishly illustrated publication, meticulously organized by the IU Eskenazi Museum of Art, pays tribute to the outstanding African ceramics held in the collection of Professor Emeritus William M. Itter.

The collection boasts an impressive array of ceramic pieces, spanning various African cultures and periods. Each piece is carefully selected and showcases the exceptional skill and craftsmanship of African ceramic artists. The volume is divided into several sections, each focusing on a specific theme or aspect of ceramics. These sections provide a comprehensive exploration of the medium, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of its historical, cultural, and artistic significance.

One of the key themes explored in the volume is the role of ceramics in African societies. The authors examine how ceramics have been used for practical purposes, such as cooking and storage, as well as for artistic and ceremonial purposes. They explore the cultural and social significance of ceramics, highlighting how they have been used to express identity, preserve tradition, and communicate values.

Another notable aspect of the volume is its emphasis on the diversity of African ceramic traditions. The authors showcase ceramic pieces from different regions of Africa, including West Africa, Central Africa, East Africa, and Southern Africa. Each region has its unique artistic styles, techniques, and motifs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the continent. The volume also includes examples of contemporary African ceramic artists, who are pushing the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship and exploring new forms and materials.

The illustrations in the volume are breathtaking, providing a vivid and detailed representation of the ceramic pieces featured. The photographs, drawings, and diagrams meticulously detail the intricate patterns, shapes, and textures of the ceramics, allowing readers to appreciate their aesthetic beauty and technical intricacies. The accompanying essays and commentary by renowned experts in the field further enhance the understanding and appreciation of African ceramics.

This volume is a valuable resource for anyone interested in African art, culture, and history. It offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of African ceramics, providing a deeper understanding of the rich artistic heritage of the continent. Whether you are a ceramic enthusiast, an art historian, or simply someone curious about the world, this book is a must-read.

In conclusion, this remarkable volume celebrates the exceptional African ceramics in the collection of Professor Emeritus William M. Itter. It provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the medium, highlighting its historical, cultural, and artistic significance. Through its rich illustrations, insightful essays, and commentary, the book offers a valuable resource for anyone interested in African art, culture, and history.

Dimension: 280 x 240 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785512094