Mel Robson

Australian

Untitled Bowl
2006

Porcelain with decal application
1.75 x 7 x 3 in.
Gift of John Neely
2007.31

Mel Robson creates functional and nonfunctional porcelain works exploring the relationship between objects and personal narrative. The utilitarian nature of ceramics is what first drew her to clay and remains central to her practice. She creates evocative contemporary pieces juxtaposing personal narrative, memory, road maps, recipes, sewing patterns, and handwriting. Both of these slip cast Untitled Bowl pieces explore how the written word deepens appreciation of three-dimensional artwork by merging text and form. For more than twenty years Robson has been creating functional objects, sculptural works, installation pieces, public art, commissions, exhibitions, retail work, and collaborations.

Though born in Papua New Guinea, Robson has lived most of her life in Australia. She is now based in Alice Springs, teaching in the art department at Charles Darwin University while maintaining her studio practice. She first concentrated in modern Asian studies, and spent years working as a language teacher, but in her late 20s she took a pottery class and knew instantly how she wanted to spend her life. She got an advanced diploma in ceramics at Southbank TAFE in Brisbane, and a degree in contemporary arts at Southern Cross University in Lismore. Her work was selected in two World Ceramics Biennales in South Korea and is held in national and international collections. She is regularly featured in art and design publications.

Billie Sessions, PhD.

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This object was included in the following exhibitions:

• Ceramic Case 11: Women, White, and Porcelain (Left and Right Sides) , 8/21/2012 - 5/8/2014
• Audrey Shakespear's Ceramic Exhibit: Line As Process or Product , 11/1/2013 - 5/5/2014
• Ceramic Niches - Mold Making , 9/15/2018 - 5/4/2019
• Unearthed , 8/23/2022 - 5/14/2023

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