Divination: Exemplifying and Configuring Archetypes in Ceramics

Abstract

Abstract/Summary Dissertation Divination: Exemplifying and Configuring Archetypes in Ceramics is a study of my research practice. The cards of the tarot can be used as a conceptual framework and source of inspiration for making ceramic sculptures. The cards can be used to understand the creative process as an expression of archetypes. My dissertation discusses these archetypes from the tarot cards, both in their historical operation, their manifestation in my art practice, as well as, examining approaches taken to these archetypes by other artists such as Salvador Dali and Niki de Saint Phalle. The theoretical basis for the dissertation is informed by the writings of Carl G. Jung who has proposed concepts dealing with creativity, coincidence, a collective unconscious and archetypes. These ideas form a model for the understanding of my studio work. As background, the dissertation examines examples of artworks that could be seen to be drawn from a collective unconscious. Studio Work The studio work consists of a series of ceramic sculptures formulating the archetypes that I have derived from the tarot cards. The three dimensional clay, with found inclusions, examines the idea of specific archetypes. These archetypes are titled in the works including: The Fool, Strength, The Magician, Tarot Sun, The Empress II, The Lovers, Empress l, The Chariot I and II The Angel Temperance, The Tarot Devil and The World. The ceramic objects have been created in clay using handbuilding techniques. The clay was such that it could include found ceramic pieces and be refired. The pieces have been re-fired many times to achieve a variety of glaze effects. The works range in size from 30-60 cms approximately and include freestanding sculptures and complementing flat wall works.