Celebrating the Power of Clay at 100% Design Africa

A new wave of South African ceramic art is heading to Decorex Joburg 2025 with the Grounded Practice capsule exhibition inviting fairgoers to explore clay’s deep cultural and emotional resonance.

WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

When ceramics transcend mere functionality, they become compelling objects of contemplation and conversation. Grounded Practice, an exhibition by House Union Block (HUB) in collaboration with Spier Arts Trust (SAT) and Spier Wine Farm, embraces this notion – exploring themes of stability, sustainability, and self-reflection through the grounding medium of clay.

Now, for the first time, a capsule collection curated for 100% Design Africa and which includes pieces from Grounded Practice, will be on display at Decorex Joburg from 24 to 27 July, giving fairgoers a chance to view and acquire pieces, too.

The initial format of Grounded Practice brought together 63 ceramic artworks by 42 exceptional artists. “Ceramics often fly under the radar in the fine art world,” says curator Tamlin Blake, Chief Curator at SAT. “This show proves just how innovative and relevant they can be.” For the 100% Design Africa display booth, SAT has chosen 23 artworks by 18 artists.

The chosen pieces reflect each artist’s emotional and creative responses to a rapidly shifting world, while also celebrating the meditative and healing qualities of the medium. “Clay is an ancient and deeply symbolic material,” says Blake. “It connects us physically to the land and offers a powerful space for reflection and regeneration.”

“Our goal with the annual Spier winter ceramics show is to provide a platform to increase visibility for artists and this art form, which traditionally is considered a craft, rather than fine art,” says Mirna Wessels, CEO of SAT. “We will extend the impact through participation in 100% Design Africa 2025 and hope to not only give the artists exposure, but also to achieve sales on their behalf.”

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