My porcelain is made using techniques originally developed in China
for imperial wares. Japanese porcelain masters studied their techniques
and have preserved what in some cases has been lost in China. In
essence, this way of making focuses on the interior shape of the
form being made. Precisely carved wooden tools and measures, made
by the potter, are used to assist in the 'throwing'. These tools
are called the kote and hera, and the tonbo measure. Wares are externally
turned when nearly dry to mirror the internal shape. Great precision
is possible, though skill and many years training are needed. The
finished wares when fired have many of the qualities of crystal.
There is a high pitched resonance when tapped and a translucency,
prized as a sign of quality denoting fine porcelain. With care, these
wares will last many lifetimes.
Having learnt my skills in Japan, I work in a tranquil setting in country Victoria with mountainous surroundings that are well suited to making porcelain. I have been working over 25 years in my art and have acquired unique knowledge and experience. I believe strongly in the functional, and the enrichment ceramic art can bring.
--Alistair Whyte
Group Exhibitions
Solo Exhibitions
Grants
Awards
Represented
National Gallery of Victoria
Hamilton Regional Gallery,
Victoria
Diamond Valley Artists' Collection,
Victoria
Queensland Potters' Society Collection
Victoria
ceramic Group Permanent Collection
Queen Victoria Museum, Luanceston, Tasmania
Art gallery of Tasmania, Hobart