There's a new art show in town that just might be your cup of tea.
Diane Gwilliam has brought a fine collection of her teapots and mugs to the Perron District. Unlike other exhibits, the artist definitely wants the viewer to touch the work.
"I like them to feel good when you hold them," she stated when discussing what drives her work. "It's like anything else that you hold. I want it to be used. That's the primary thing for me. That's success for me."
The selection of these crafts comes from one of the city's longest standing producers of hand-built pottery. She has had her hands dirty with clay since taking a beginner workshop offered through the city in the days before St. Albert Place with its renowned potters' studios.
Gwilliam has earned her own status as one of the most recognizable names in local pottery and in teaching as well. It was just last year when she was acknowledged with an Excellence in Arts Teaching prize at last year's Mayor's Celebration of the Arts gala.
She gives much credit to Nell Sadee, one of her earliest and most enduring teachers.
"I used to hate making teapots," she admitted, relating a story from her experiences as a student. "[Nell] would say, 'Have you ever made one yet that you like?' She'd say that you have to make one until you like it. Now, they're one of my favourite things to make."
Teapots are also widely regarded as a technically challenging piece because there are so many structural elements that must be taken into account, including the strength of the handle, the angle of the spout, and the fit of the lid. At the same time, the potter must always have a mind on the final look of the piece and also the feel.
That's no problem for Gwilliam. These pieces are all less than full size but would likely be ideal for a single serving for two or a double serving for an individual tea lover.
A good spot
There really couldn't be a more perfect venue for Gwilliam to bring this fine collection to. Crimson Quill Gifts sits nestled into its nook along the west side of Perron Street, quietly enjoying its own place of repose for all who care to peruse the selection of rocks and crystals, new age books, varieties of incense and other items of a spiritual and healing nature.
And teas. The new age store has a fine selection of herbal teas to take home or just enjoy while you're walking around.
"More people buy the tea than drink the tea in the store, but I do have a lot of people who browse with a cup of tea," said owner Deb McGee.
The store has long been one of the participating locations with the city's summer ArtWalk but only recently has it struck upon the notion of featuring functional art instead of purely decorative pieces and paintings. She couldn't have hit the nail on the head better than to show Gwilliam's teapots and mugs.
There was a fantastic turnout for the show's opening on Thursday night. McGee exclaimed that everyone was as enthusiastic for the work as she was.
"It's wonderful! I think they are very nice and whimsical and fun and cute! They have a ceremonial purpose as well, and they're just exquisite."
Gwilliam's teapots and mugs are on display until the end of the month. Crimson Quill Gifts is located at #110, 8 Perron St.
For more information, call the store at 780-418-7803 or visit www.crimsonquillgifts.com.
