Balanced Beauty: Porcelain works by Martha Grover

Balanced Beauty
Porcelain works by Martha Grover
In-Person & Online Virtual Exhibit
March 8 - April 12, 2021

Balanced Beauty features porcelain works by Maine based artist Martha
Grover, a contemporary functional potter. These works evoke the beauty,
dramatic shapes and colors of orchids whose unrivaled symbol of refinement
have been associated with love and elegance throughout history.

Martha states, "I seek to enhance the experience of interacting with
functional objects. I work toward creating a sense of elegance for the user
while in contact with each porcelain piece. Reminiscent of orchids, flowing
dresses, and the body, the work has a sense of familiarity and preciousness.

This show will highlight the inspiration of orchids in my work. The pieces
displayed emphasize the forms, colors, and curves of Paphiopedilums and
Phragmipediums. Vessels to display orchid sprays - flower bricks,
tulipieres, and vases will adorn the gallery, complemented by functional
wares including pitchers, trays, and bowls that will also highlight this
unique flower that influences my work.
This show will be a feast of color and an abundance of curves - spotlighting
the elements that draw humans to these mysterious blooms."

      


Artist Bio

Martha Grover is a contemporary functional potter, living in Bethel, Maine,
creating thrown and altered porcelain pieces. Her work presents a voice that
is at once classical and present day. From tableware to wall pieces, Grover
starts with wheel thrown forms, which are altered to evoke memories and
familiarity. She received an MFA in ceramics from the University of
Massachusetts Dartmouth and since then has had residencies at the Northern
Clay Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the Archie Bray Foundation in Helena,
Montana and Red Lodge Clay Center in Red Lodge, Montana. Her work can be
found at the Red Lodge Clay Center, the Archie Bray Foundation, the Clay
Studio of Missoula, Schaller Gallery, 18 Hands Gallery, Crimson Laurel
Gallery, Charlie Cummings Gallery, and Cedar Creek Gallery. Her work has
been published in Ceramics Monthly, Pottery Making Illustrated, Clay Times,
500 Pitchers, 500 Platters and Chargers, and 500 Vases. Martha's work was
featured on the cover of Ceramic Monthly's May 2010 issue.

View online on our website at www.clayartcenter.org  Schedule an appointment
to view the exhibit in person by contacting gallery@clayartcenter.org.