'Riddim and Soul' by Lawrence Bailey.

'Clay Works' is an exhibition of ceramics and ceramic sculpture with work from lecturers, recent graduates and students of the Edna Manley College (EMC). The show, recently mounted at the CAG[e] gallery, is the second instalment of an annual effort to showcase new developments within specific media. With a focus on ceramics, however, 'Clay Works' is a little off the beaten path.

stylistically diverse

The show is as cohesive as it is stylistically diverse. Phillip Supersad's serene lines ('Windsong') rest easily across from David Dunn's abstract 'National Pride' series and Norma Harrack's angular 'Flight' is at home in the same space as Shun Lawton's more representational work. Lawrence Bailey and Lawton share a similarity of vision in their semi-abstract approach. The human figure is central to pieces like Bailey's 'Riddim and Soul' and 'Submission' by Lawton.

Talbert Taylor is one of the current EMC students in the show. His Untitled ('Burnt Banana Leaf') captures the essence of the real thing while remaining visually interesting. The technical simplicity of terracotta is a perfect complement to the choice of subject. Fellow student Andranique Morgan has three pieces in the exhibition. The work of these students add a contemporary element to a show with the stated aim of "exploring new developments in media and EMC's role in shaping those art forms in Jamaica". The tradition of one of the oldest departments at EMC lives on.

According to curator Veerle Poupeye, the first head of the school's ceramic department, Cecil Baugh might be responsible for many of the commonalties to be found in the output of Jamaica's ceramic artists. Widely recognised as the father of modern Jamaican ceramics, Baugh either taught, or indirectly influenced, the work of just about every ceramist the island has produced since his time at the art school. With the exception of Lutalo Makonzi, all the artists in the show are products of the department.

strong presence

Makonzi, however, might be a kindred spirit, for his work fits comfortably into the collection. 'The Judge' has a strong presence. The glazed earthenware piece simultaneously displays a sensitivity and a boldness that make for a compelling piece of art.

As an exhibition, 'Clay Works' is an impressive collection of ceramics with an array of technical and conceptual approaches. The work is a fine example of what EMC's ceramics department has to offer and a unique glimpse of things to come. As an exploration of the contemporary direction of a medium, the exhibit is an important one with a catalogue that reads like a collector's item.

'Clay Works' comes down as the CAG[e] and the college prepare to commemorate Edna Manley Week with the 2009 SVA Faculty Show, which opens on March 3.

'Genetic Retention of African Aesthetic' by Shun Lawton. - Contributed photos

'National Pride 2' by David Dunn.

'Windsong' by Phillip Supersad.

'Resilience' by Lawrence Bailey.

'Breaking Free' by Lawrence Bailey.