Carson Culp & Friends – Exhibition Celebration
Opening | 14th March, 6 to 8 pm alongside the Wine Bar
Exhibition | 14th to the 23rd of March
Montsalvat Arts Centre proudly presents Vessels of Expression, an exhibition showcasing the work of Carson Culp, created during his one-month international residency at Clay Talk Montsalvat. This body of work reflects his ongoing exploration of beauty through form, surface decoration, and utility.
Joining Carson are four talented members of the Clay Talk community, each bringing their unique voice and style to the exhibition. Together, their works celebrate the diversity of contemporary ceramics, from refined functional forms to expressive works of art, these artists share a common ethos where practical utility and personal expression coexist in harmony.
Through this exhibition, Vessels of Expression offers a glimpse into the hybridity of energy fostered at Clay Talk Montsalvat, where tradition and innovation intersect in the hands of dedicated ceramic artists.
Artist Bio
My journey as a craftsman has been shaped by hands-on experience and meaningful connections gained through numerous jobs and apprenticeships, including an enriching stint at the prestigious Leach Pottery in 2017. This was then followed by a 3 month residency at the Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art in Mashiko, Japan.
My focus lies in the preservation of handmade qualities and making with intent and care; a commitment forged through a love for the process of turning clay into ceramic. Exploring diverse cultures and their techniques through clay during my travels has been a constant source of inspiration, deeply and continuously influencing my approach.
My artistic expression predominantly derives from forms made on a potter’s wheel. These forms are then treated as canvases as I decorate with patterns, color, texture, and the use of overlapping glazes. Working with clay is more than a vocation for me; it's a soul-nurturing journey that has, in many ways, saved my life. Having participated in multiple residencies worldwide such as Taller De Terreno BCS, Mexico, La Meridiana International School of Ceramic Art Tuscany, Italy, Greenwich House Pottery New York, New York, and many others. These residencies have shaped my work to be versatile and eclectic as I adapt to any environment and materials at hand. Allowing place, curiosity, community, and trust be a constant source of fuel and inspiration to be a maker in this world.
As I continue to travel, explore, educate, and further my artistic practice through residencies I feel even more connected to a legacy that was spread through its disciples. Being a former Leach Potter gives me a sense of pride and somewhat obligation to educate and spread a sort of philosophy behind making in this world. This gives me a sense of meaning and purpose that is visible through the work I make and the voice I have.
As I look into the future with a plan, yet embrace anything that is thrown my way, I hope to impact people's lives through my teachings, my character, and my work. The mentor-apprentice relationship has deep meaning for me and I strive to foster that with a younger generation of potters in this world as I age. culppottery.com