Curated by Tamlin Blake, Chief Curator at Spier Arts Trust, the exhibition features 63 ceramic artworks by 42 artists from across South Africa – each one thoughtfully selected to explore themes of stability, sustainability, and self-reflection.

‘Grounded Practice’ offers more than a showcase of beautiful objects, it’s a timely conversation about what it means to feel rooted in a world of change.

Rather than dictate a theme from the outset, Blake waited to see what ideas emerged organically from the artists’ submissions.

“What came through, almost overwhelmingly, was a sense of instability – personally, politically, environmentally,” she explains. “Many artists were using their practice to find their footing again, to reestablish a sense of balance and belonging. That’s where the title ‘Grounded Practice’ comes from.”

The Power of Clay

Central to this year’s exhibition is the material itself. “Clay is a potent and enduring material in human civilisation,” Blake explains. “It’s often seen as a metaphor for creativity, malleability, and human potential. But once it’s fired and becomes ceramic, it also represents permanence and resilience.”

For many of the artists in ‘Grounded Practice’, clay offers not just a physical medium, but a space of emotional release. “Using clay in a creative space is soothing and healing,” Blake says. “It’s meditative and many artists find it helps them to ground themselves, to find their centre again.”

Clay also connects us to the earth in a literal and symbolic sense. “It’s a direct link to the land,” she continues. “Many of the artworks in this show ask us to consider our impact on the environment, and remind us of our responsibility as stewards of nature.”

That message resonates deeply at Spier, where regeneration isn’t a side project, it’s a way of being.

From regenerative farming and ecological restoration to sending zero waste to landfill, Spier is constantly working towards a gentler, more conscious relationship with the land. ‘Grounded Practice’ embodies this ethos, offering a creative reflection on what it means to live and create sustainably.

The exhibition presents a range of work that will appeal to a diverse audience. “There’s something for everyone,” Blake says. “Whether you’re a fine art collector, a design enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys engaging with creativity in new ways.”

Some pieces delve into deep conceptual territory, while others are whimsical or visually striking. “We’re lucky to have such a big space at The Old Wine Cellar,” Blake adds. “It means we can show off a wide section of ceramic art that’s being made in South Africa right now.”

Three Artists to Watch

While every artist brings something unique to the table, Blake highlights three whose work powerfully embodies the ‘Grounded Practice’ theme:

  • Sinethemba Xola’s work is a deeply spiritual and elevated form of expression. The creative process is a meditative journey, offering an escape from life’s worries and allowing him to focus entirely on his work.
  • Anita Sikutshwa creates abstract forms inspired by African mythology and folklore and focuses on the unseen spiritual world. She says working with clay is its own form of therapy.
  • Sylvester Zanoxolo Mqeku believes the earth’s surface has always been a starting point for human development, and we are forever leaving our imprints on it. His imprints come from a sand-casting technique to create subtle beauty.

‘Grounded Practice’ – like all of Spier Arts Trust’s exhibitions – supports local artists in building sustainable careers. Through exhibitions, commissions, and mentorship, the Trust creates opportunities for artists to grow and reach new audiences.

“Ceramics often don’t get the spotlight they deserve,” says Blake. “This show is a celebration of just how innovative, thoughtful, and beautiful the art form can be.”

VISITOR INFORMATION:

Location: Old Wine Cellar, Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Dates: 26 May to 14 September 2025 Open daily from: 9:00 - 17:00 Entry to the exhibition is free