“I wanted to take unusual forms and reveal some beauty to viewers.” Nicole Cosgrove on her work in ‘Make’

Yass artist Nicole Cosgrove is one of the amazing artists taking part in Make at Tyger.

Inspiration can be found in the unlikeliest of places, and can help create from places of joy or from sadness. Sometimes, rarely, the art that is created from these inspiring moments reflect both of those feelings.

Nicole Cosgrove is an outstanding ceramic artist living and working in Yass and Canberra, and one of a group of six friends exhibiting in Make, which has its official opening at Tyger Gallery in Yass on 18 November.

Her stunning works in Make are terracotta dishes and figurative forms, and the two types of work were inspired by very different things.

“I was so saddened by the result of the recent [Voice to Parliament] referendum,” says Nicole.

“I think the [terracotta dishes] were a response to try and get my hands directly into the earth, to reconnect and to sit quietly and make something with a simple form and quiet presence. The terracotta feels so much like the Australian earth.”

“They’re in contrast to the more decorative pieces which I just had fun making.”

“I was initially inspired by the idea of gargoyles and what people perceive as ugly or frightening, but also how these creatures were also believed to be protectors. I wanted to take unusual forms and reveal some beauty or endearment to viewers. I really loved making the creatures.”

Working from her home studio in Canberra on her verandah in Yass, Nicole’s gorgeous work for Make highlight an artist enjoying the process of creation.

“I usually focus on functionality in my pieces, but this year I’ve felt the need to lean towards experimenting more with clay and its properties,” she says.

“Figurative forms are perfect for exploration. It’s been a pleasure to sit and play with the clay without preconceived notions of the end result.”

Her beautiful artwork hints at a fascination with antique and ancient ceramic art, while still creating pieces that feel modern and fresh.

“I’ve recently been interested in the decorative and highly elaborate ceramics from the 17th, 18th and 19th century. There’s endless inspiration via the Sotheby’s Instagram page!”

“ I also am fascinated by ancient ceramics and their uses. I’ve recently been working on some pieces inspired by the Goulandris Master who carved marble female figures from 2500 to 2400 BC.”

She is excited to be showing her work alongside a group of her good friends, including Sara Phemister, Stephanie Corkhill Hyles, Ning Clark, Kasey Robinson, and Sally Rasmussen.

“It’s probably quite rare to be part of a group exhibition with your friends, and this opportunity is very precious to me. I’m constantly inspired by their works, as everyone will see for themselves in this exhibition, and am very grateful to be part of this group.”

“I hope that when people see the works they smile, that they find some beauty, that they remember that all artwork starts with intent and strong feeling. I hope that these works prompt some feeling or response in themselves – whatever that might be.”

Make has its opening celebrations on 18 November, 2-4pm at Tyger Gallery in Yass. The show runs until 3 December. The gallery is open 10-4pm, Friday to Sunday.

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