Speaking Out Exhibition
by carolecluer
I am delighted that in just a few days I am taking part in Embrace Arts exhibition at The University of Leicester’s art centre.
Although the majority of my practice involves drawing, for this exhibition I have revisited my interest with kintsugi, I have previously worked with blue and white plates for a piece called ‘unbroken’ related to my experiences of breast cancer.
This time I have chosen an assortment of plates that would represent different eras and social classes, I have included ones that would be easily recognisable, to contain something that would connect with the viewer’s own life and emphasise how domestic violence affects all areas of society.
Plates are often chosen when first setting up home, their design reflects the type of home we hope to create, the image that we wish to present as a couple or family. They are desired, saved for, gifted. They are present in our everyday, our special occasions, our celebrations, our tragedies.
Throwing or smashing plates is often used as an image of domestic arguments. The breaking of pottery can be found in wedding and funeral rituals to symbolise something that cannot be undone. Even attempting repair is to accept imperfection.
The contrast of these plates, that were perhaps once carefully selected and are now cracked and repaired, their joints widened and under tension, seeks to highlight the sometimes stark differences between our hopes and realities.
I will add more photographs after the opening night, this Friday, 31st January 2014, 5pm-7.30pm
The exhibition runs until Friday 28th March 10am-6pm.
Please go along and have a look if you are able.
For more information about the exhibition and symposium this Friday
carole cluer 
This looks fascinating. I have inherited some wonderful plates that were in the house where I was raised in Norwich. There were ‘Cluer’ connections with the family who had lived there before – the Cooper family. If these plates, two left, would be of interest, then maybe I could send you a snap or two.
I haven’t worked with plates for a while GR but I would be interested in seeing the plates you inherited. They can be so full of memories can’t they, universal and personal at the same time. I don’t know of any Cluers over near Norwich ( my husbands family) but it’s such an unusual name there is bound to be a connection somewhere!