The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN artist Alistair Stevenson will bid farewell to the local art community at his final exhibition, The Growth Series, tomorrow evening. The young artist will embark on a new journey in the People’s Republic of China, where he is headed to advance his studies in ceramic arts.

Stevenson’s final showcase at home is presented by the D’Aguilar Art Foundation and features over 15 sculptural pieces which combine functional and decorative use. Alistair’s latest work depicts his personal and professional growth over the past six years. The show begins from 6-9pm.

“The Growth Series is inspired by my personal and professional development growth since coming to live and study at the College of the Bahamas and emerging as an aspiring ceramic artist in the Bahamian visual arts community. The show also serves as a stepping stone for my movement towards study of the ceramic arts in the People’s Republic of China. This information is also the inspiration for the name of the show itself,” he said.

Last year, Alistair visited China and delved deeply into the artistic expression of the Chinese people. Over a six week period he and other artists from North America visited four provinces: Shanghai, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Beijing. Three weeks of his time was spent in an artist’s residency programme. Alistair lived and worked at the JDZ-WVU International Ceramic Studios in JingDeZhen City, a place known for producing approximately 90 percent of the world’s blue and white porcelain.

“Mentally, I have been preparing for studies in China for at least three years now; however it was not until a year and a half ago that I decided to actually pursue it. The moment is definitely a bittersweet one. In keeping the benefits of such an experience in mind it is really more sweet than anything,” said Alistair.

“I am anticipating studies, culture shock, language barriers, acclimatising, and everything else I cannot prepare myself for. I hope to gain an experience that will help to carry me comfortably and happily throughout my life time, working in a field that allows me to share that happiness with others,” he told Tribune Arts.

Though he intends to spend five years studying in China he said the possibilities are endless. Alistair hopes his growth so far will be evident in his predeparture exhibit. He hopes it will inspire others to see the need to develop their craft.

“To remain stagnant will inevitably lead to comfort and overall acceptance of what works as opposed to delving into new experiences which encourage positive change. The conceptual theme brought to life in this body of work is, as the title suggests, growth. Along with this comes discussion of the need for initiative and responsibility to encourage development, whether that is personal or professional for the viewer. Physical themes which express the conceptual ones would be seeds, roots, coral, sponge and stone-like structures that all act as inspiration,” said Alistair.

Working with ceramics is always a meticulous process, however Alistair wanted to push the boundaries and move beyond what he previously knew and experienced working with clay.

“The major difference between this and previous works is the application of logic, patience and diligence, so overall it is the principles of process which differ greatly. The objects themselves are generally more refined than the usual rawness which may be associated with my sculptures,” he said.