Ground Works

Ground Works

Monday 12 May – Sunday 29 June 2025

Born from GLOST glaze’s material research interviews and founder Elena Gileva’s decades-long investigation into ceramic materials, GROUND WORKS examines the fundamental relationship between raw materials and ceramic creation, offering visitors insight into the processes that shape contemporary sustainable practices. Glost glaze presents the journey from mineral to form, highlighting the crucial dialogue between scientific understanding and artistic expression through this exhibition.

Through a curated collection of melt tests, geological specimens, and infographics, visitors gain insight into the chemistry and methodology behind glaze making and material experimentation. The exhibition emphasizes process and research, showcasing how contemporary makers approach material testing and development in their practice.  

Equal importance is placed on process and outcome. Through prototypes, test pieces, and works-in-progress, visitors gain understanding of the methodical journey of material investigation. The displayed work represents the rigorous process of research, testing, and refinement, offering transparency into ceramic development. 

Featured works explore various approaches to material use, from systematic glaze testing to experimental material combinations. Some makers investigate the potential of local clay bodies and ash glazes, while others experiment with unconventional materials and processes. This diversity of approach demonstrates the breadth of possibility within ceramic material research. 

Ground Works serves as both documentation of current ceramic innovation and an exploration of material possibilities. By examining the intersection of scientific inquiry, artistic practice, and material research, the exhibition reveals how contemporary ceramicists are developing new understanding of materials while considering their environmental impact.