Robyn
Becker
1. What part of the process of creating art do you like
best?
When I work with clay, I
commence with an idea of the form I wish to achieve - but
then my hands and the material seem to do their own thing.
I love it when my conscious mind takes a back seat.
2.
What is your working environment like?
It is
in transition. Most of my work has been created in my
open plan kitchen/dining/living. Now I've relocated
everything to one room. Unfortunately, this means my
inspirations and materials are not enjoying their usual
dialogue with me.
3.
What kind of (formal & informal) art training have you
had?
Formally, a Diploma of Visual
Arts (Ceramics) at Box Hill TAFE set me on the path of
ceramic sculpture; informally, I'm reading, reading,
reading: Joseph Campbell, John Berger, Ken Wilber and good
fiction.
4.
How has your art training affected the kind of art you
produce?
The
best thing about studying at Box Hill TAFE was the hands on
tuition. Shane Kent empowers students to explore their own
unique creativity and combines technical training with
playfulness.
5.
Name some important influences and inspirations in your art
career.
I'm
always inspired after a visit to the Indigenous gallery at
Ian Potter and after viewing the traditional Asian bowls at
NGV International. People who have inspired me include
local artists Victoria Howlett, Robbie Harmsworth and Shane
Kent; Gordon Baldwin and Cy Twombley are key contemporary
artists whose work I admire. Visits to archaelogical
museums overseas have provided countless inspirations.
6.
What has been the most difficult thing you have encountered
in your work?
Equipment - having control of a
kiln that works! But equally important, finding time to be
an artist, to get into the space and step back from the
daily grind of modern life.
7.
Have there been major turning points in your art
career?
Having commenced art training
as a mature adult, the completion of a TAFE diploma was
important. The turning point might come when I
develop a regular practice and don't let my 'day job'
dominate my life!
8.
What has been the highlight of your art career?
Being
one of the students included in the FRESH Awards at Craft
Victoria for my graduate show was pretty amazing.
Caption:
Seed,
ceramic, by Robyn Becker