TROUPE
A solo exhibition of new experimental ceramic sculptures to compliment the Arts Council touring exhibition Breaking the Mould.
Lakeside Arts, Angea Visitor Centre, Nottingham.
November 2021 - 9th January 2022.
In this recent body of work Closs uses clay to explore a sculptural language she has previously expressed through the combination of a multiplicity of different materials. Working within the rich craft-based ceramic tradition has presented fertile ground for her continued consideration of how a material may be an active influence in determining imagery and form. Her approach, anchored in meditative play, leaves room for the sculpture to evolve organically during the process of making, and for imagery to suggest itself almost subconsciously. Inspiration is drawn from a myriad of sources, from classical architecture and science fiction props to natural organisms and confectionery. The sculptures often play with our perception of scale and have a monumental quality despite their size. Whilst some appear to have an implied functionality, others, more theatrical in nature, seem invested with their own character and to be playing a role in some unfolding narrative.
Troupe I, Mixed Glazed Ceramic
Troupe II, Mixed Glazed Ceramic
Troupe III, Glazed Ceramic, Coloured Slip
Troupe IV, Mixed Glazed Ceramic
Troupe V, Mixed Ceramic, Coloured Slip
Troupe VI, Black Clay, Concrete, charcoal, Fixative
Troupe VII, Glazed Ceramic, Coloured Slip
Troupe VIII, Mixed Ceramic
Troupe IX, Glazed Ceramic, Emulsion
Troupe X, Mixed Ceramic, Coloured Slip
Troupe XI, Glazed Ceramic
Golden
Pastel & Chalk on Paper
2021

Troupe XIII, Troupe XII, Golden

Troupe XIII, Ceramic, Coloured Slip, Charcoal, Fixative, Polymer Clay

Troupe XII, Glazed Ceramic, Copper Oxide, Pewter







Subject, Charcoal & Chalk on paper, A3

Viewfinder, Charcoal & Chalk on paper, A3

Silhouettes, Charcoal & Chalk on paper, A3
Troupe I, Detail

Troupe I, Mixed Glazed Ceramic





Troupe II, Mixed Glazed Ceramic





Troupe III, Glazed Ceramic, Coloured Slip


Troupe IV, Mixed Glazed Ceramic



Troupe V, Mixed Ceramic, Coloured Slip







Troupe VII, Glazed Ceramic, Coloured Slip

Troupe VIII, Mixed Ceramic




Troupe IX, Glazed Ceramic, Emulsion




Troupe VI, Black Clay, Concrete, charcoal, Fixative








Troupe XI, Glazed Ceramic


Troupe X, Mixed Ceramic, Coloured Slip