BRUTALIST / Baroque

An exhibition by ceramic artists, Donalee Moriarty and Nicolette Johnson, exploring the shared qualities that unite their seemingly opposing styles.

Brutalism and Baroque are architectural styles founded on contrasting ideals. Emerging in the mid-20th century, Brutalism emphasised bold geometric forms and functionality, while the Baroque of the 17th and 18th centuries celebrated drama, movement, and ornamentation.

These influences can be seen in the ceramic practices of Donalee Moriarty and Nicolette Johnson. Moriarty's work draws on modernism, and restrained geometry, embracing the integrity of clay. It In contrast, Johnson creates romantic, stylised forms that evoke history, symbolic meaning, and beauty that evokes the sublime.

Despite their contrasting approaches, the artists' practices run parallel and complement one another, creating a dialogue that highlights the intrinsic qualities of each other's work. Both artists are locally based, with Moriarty living in Ipswich and Johnson in Brisbane.

BRUTALIST / Baroque is an Ipswich Art Gallery exhibition.