Mingei Clay: Selections from the State Art Collection
From Saturday 19 July 2025
To Sunday 19 October 2025
Presented as part of the Australian Ceramics Triennale 2025
Bunbury Regional Art Gallery is proud to present Mingei Clay: Selections from the State Art Collection, an exhibition of significant historical ceramics drawn from the State Art Collection. Featuring works by renowned potters Shoji Hamada, Bernard Leach, and Michael Cardew, this exhibition explores the philosophy of the Mingei movement—celebrating the beauty of functional, handcrafted objects.
Held in conjunction with the 2025 Australian Ceramics Triennale, Mingei Clay offers South West audiences a rare opportunity to engage with some of the 20th century’s most influential ceramic artists. These foundational figures helped shape a global appreciation for traditional craft and continue to inspire contemporary makers, including those driving a resurgence of neo-folk ceramics in the region.
The exhibition features key works from AGWA’s collection, alongside documentary material by Marty Gross, providing insights into the lives and philosophies of these master potters. Explore the Mingei Film Archive here
Curated by Dr. Michael Bianco, Mingei Clay connects historical excellence with contemporary relevance, inviting audiences to discover the enduring legacy of the Mingei movement.
Artists
Shoji Hamada
Revered as a central figure in the Mingei movement, Hamada’s pieces reflect his deep connection with nature. The exhibition will showcase his masterful craftsmanship through a diverse selection of functional vessels, embodying rustic charm and organic forms that resonate with audiences.
Bernard Leach
Known for his transformative role in bridging Eastern and Western ceramic traditions, Leach’s works will be prominently featured. Visitors will encounter stoneware pieces that bear his hallmark fusion of cultures, demonstrating the universality of artistic expression through ceramics.
Michael Cardew
As a torchbearer of Mingei values, Cardew’s pieces will provide a bridge to contemporary perspectives. His innovative approach to traditional forms and glazes will reveal the evolution of the Mingei movement across generations, underscoring the enduring relevance of this philosophy.
Image: Bernard Leach, Bowl with cover, c 1960s, porcelain, glazed. The State Art Collection, The Art Gallery of Western Australia.