Nicolette Johnson’s Solo Exhibition “High Spirits” at Sophie Gannon Gallery.

London-born Brisbane-based Nicolette Johnson is a ceramic artist whose work explores symmetry, talismanic motifs, and the importance of the artefact. Working in stoneware and employing wheel-throwing, coiling, and sculpting techniques, Nicolette applies a modern aesthetic to re-imagined ancient forms.

“High Spirits is a departure from my previous ceramic works, exploring the cathartic act of squeezing and pinching clay and how this can achieve surprisingly ornate textures, appearing at once organic like bone or coral, and highly decorative like filigree or lace”, says Nicolette.

The pots themselves, some with elaborate halo-like handles and others embellished with rocky studs, are shrouded in jewel-toned glazes and have a talismanic quality.

With a background in photographic art and social documentary, Nicolette began studying ceramics in 2015 and is continuing her practice-led exploration into functional and sculptural ceramic vessels, hand-making and firing each of her works in her Brisbane home studio. Her work is included in the permanent collections of The National Gallery of Victoria and the Museum of Brisbane.

Nicolette Johnson’s debut solo exhibition, High Spirits, is on show at Sophie Gannon Gallery, Melbourne until 21st November 2020. 

[Images courtesy of Nicolette Johnson.]