Stephen Bowers (Australia) ceramics

Stephen Bowers is a self-taught Australian potter who is known for his intricately decorated and highly skilled work. He was born in Katoomba, New South Wales in 1952 and now lives and works in Norwood, South Australia.

Bowers' interest in pottery began in the late 1970s when he was looking for a challenge while teaching in a country town in South Australia. He did a traineeship in the Jam Factory's ceramic workshop in Adelaide in 1982, and spent the next five years as an art teacher during the day and a potter at night.

Bowers' work is inspired by a wide range of sources, including indigenous art, textiles, wallpapers, comic strips, and natural history illustrations. He is also influenced by the work of historical ceramic traditions, such as blue and white porcelain.

Bowers' pottery is distinguished by its intricate and detailed underglaze decoration. He uses a variety of more... techniques to create his designs, including brushwork, sponging, and transfer printing. His work is often humorous and playful, but it also explores deeper themes such as identity, culture, and the environment.

Bowers' work has been exhibited in galleries and museums all over Australia and internationally. He has also received numerous awards for his work, including the FSL George Lieschke Award for Service to Australiana Publications in 2018.

Bowers is a highly respected figure in the Australian ceramics community. He is known for his technical skill, his creativity, and his sense of humor. His work is a unique and important contribution to Australian contemporary ceramics. less...