Arts of Japan goes to Bali
In Ubud Bali , Bruce McWhinney helped build and fire Indonesia’s first Japanese Anagama woodfired kiln at Gaya Ceramic and design Centre. (see Journal Of Australian Ceramics Vol 49#1 April 2010 p 94) A limited series of ceramics workshops has been developed from this experience and new partnership.
Culinary Clay
Kiss of Flame
The combination of Gaya’s facility and Bruce’s teaching and Asian travel experience should offer a totally different type of cultural and learning adventure.
The Gaya centre produces a range of tableware and sculptural commissions for hotels and restaurants in the Asia Pacific region, while employing over 40 Balinese artisans. Gaya is an exciting and lively hub of creativity; a hive of hand made ceramic industry in a region known for it’s beautiful art and handicrafts. Set in a lush tropical environment with the more temperate climate of higher altitude, Gaya is the ideal place to become inspired with creativity and the joy of making which comes from the exciting and colourful life of Bali itself.
While Bruce retains his love of Japan, and future tours are planned for 2012, his discovery of the laid back life of Bali has added another layer to his interest in Asia.
During his residency in Ubud, Bruce saw a visual and cultural fusion between Japan and Bali, with the ubiquitous use of bamboo for construction and planting, the verdant rice fields and thatched rooves, the courtyards and mossy gardens. This combination contrived to stimulate and confuse the geographical sense of place.In Bali the rustic charm and use of natural materials (having the signature of old Japan to so many western minds) remains a living tradition. Yet the Buddhist and pagan influence is so strong it’s impossible not to be affected by the smell of incense and the lure of massage or yoga.
The added attraction of comfortable accommodation, swimming pools, gardens, temples and the rich cultural and slow paced life makes Bali a destination to relax and free the mind into a state where creativity comes naturally and abundantly. The beauty and nature of the Balinese people will infuse a warmth into your every day experiences and give you something missing from modern western life.
Ceramic Workshops
Bruce has been working on the idea of organising and participating in creative workshops in Asia to bring together his love of ceramics, travel, exotic destinations, exploration of traditional and contemporary art, and love of Asian life.This new partnership with Gaya Ceramic and Design in Bali provides the perfect place to explore the possibility of extending the creative experience.
With over 30 years of teaching and studio experience, and 7 years of Asian travels, Bruce brings a unique combination of knowledge to the field of cultural travel and study.
These 2 exciting workshops planned for 2011, bring to realisation some of these aspirations, with Bali the most affordable Asian workshop destination available.
Come and join us to share in the wonder and joy of cultural travel and learning.
Culinary Clay
Kiss of Flame