Mel Robson

Ceramicist

©Mel Robson

Mapped out in ceramic

Mel uses everyday objects to tell stories and connect people
She creates functional objects, sculptures, installations and public art
The desert where she is based is a source of inspiration for her pieces

Mel Robson’s love for ceramics started in her twenties after a night class she took for fun. This led her to undertake a series of formal studies and traineeships, including under masters such as Patsy Hely and John Nealy. Today, she mostly learns through self-exploration and collaborations. Initially drawn to the utilitarian nature of clay, Mel soon grew interested in the ways objects can go beyond their function, to hold and tell stories. To engage with people personally and create connections between the past and present, she borrows evocative imagery from handwriting, maps, and other archival materials. Increasingly, she is inspired by the natural world, especially the desert around her. "The remarkable colours and light there have shaped my pieces and still move me every day," says Mel.

Interview

©Mel Robson

©Mel Robson

How would you describe what you do?: My style is fairly minimalist, restrained and pared back. I love simplicity in form, and rich but simple surfaces. I like to distill ideas down to their bare essence and to tell stories. Through my work, I am always striving for the simplicity and order I want but may not have in my life!
Why do you focus on everyday, functional objects?: Functional objects are core to our everyday lives. They connect us with each other and with our communities and histories. They remind us of people, moments, places and in doing so are embedded with the stories of all of us. I love that a humble, useful object can hold so much.
How have people connected with your work?: People look at the maps and suddenly find their childhood street, or they share stories when something stimulates a memory at my exhibitions. I love having such conversations. There is a personal narrative in my work, but many of the stories are also shared experiences by many.
What techniques or processes do you use?: I do not like to limit myself. I prefer to put different processes next to each other – found with handmade objects, hand-built with slipcast, hand-drawn with digital. I always come back to my love of functional wheel-thrown pots!

Mel Robson is a master artisan: she began her career in 1996 and she started teaching in 2005