The Temptation of Growth

About the work

The vase explores playful ways to engage with nature from alternative perspectives. Viewed from the side, the characters, locked inside a small object, dress up in bird costumes to gain the attention of the viewer. Whereas from above, the ‘chicks’ lead the little creatures to escape from the wide-open mouth of the birds. The perspective from the side and above invites the viewer to discover how your way to observe the pot can affect the dynamics between each counterpart. Metaphorically it invites you to reflect on our roles in defining what we see in nature and the various possibilities of co-existence.” – Qi Fang Colbert

Northumberland-based Qi Fang Colbert is an internationally acclaimed artist, ceramicist, illustrator, and researcher known for her surrealist narrative works. During her PhD in Fine Art and Art History, she explored the transformation between 2D and 3D narrative images in video installations, which inspired her passion for combining original drawings with ceramics. Working primarily with hand-built and wheel-thrown high-fire white stoneware, Qi incorporates freehand carved and inlaid designs. Her ceramics showcase various carving techniques, including the Huahua technique (Chinese), Mishima, and sgraffito, and are adorned with decorative slips and underglazes. The pieces seek to foster a dialogue between objects and drawings, influenced by Taoism and Phenomenology, and are characterised by quirky, playful, and symbolic narratives that explore themes of transforming identity, human-nature interactions, feminism, and cultural boundaries.

Qi is a member of the North Potters Association and an associate member of the Craft Potters Association.