travis bell — new ceramics – stacked series
travis bell, canonical cannon 1, 2025, ceramics, 35 x 20 x 20 cm
The Launceston artist has just delivered a dozen exciting new pieces to Handmark Gallery.
Travis explores the intersection of balance, fragility and tension with art that appears to defy gravity. Previously he has created clay vessels that sit at seemingly impossible angles; there have also been ceramic stupas made from precarious spherical shapes that look ready to collapse at any moment. His new works build on these learnings – representing years of artistic practice and experimentation.
In this latest outing, he produces striking ceramics that reference miniature totem poles. Each is made from three pieces of clay stacked on top of one other. “The top and bottom are mirror images, while the middle serves as decoration,” Travis explains. “They also continue my investigation into how clay can combine both the functional and sculptural aspects.”
Another recurring theme is his passion for clay itself. Travis leaves ceramics unadorned and unglazed, allowing the beauty of the material to shine through as one of the most important elements of his art. This is highlighted further through works that are minimal in style and strong in form: “I aim to present clay as a truthful and honest medium.”
New ceramics from Travis Bell are now on display at Handmark Gallery.