Ceramic Artist
321 3 Ave, Ladysmith, BC, V9G 1A1
When stepping into Mary Fox’s gallery, it’s difficult not to be struck by both the fine quality and sheer variety of work held within the space. The array of colours, textures, and sculptural elements of Mary’s pieces evoke the landscape in which she creates; clay, glass, and local sandstone, to name a few. Distinctive glazes remind the viewer of stormy seas and whitewash, textures of the ocean floor, swirling colours, elements of nature and imperfections.
Mary has been potting since the age of 13, stating that she fell in love with pottery “the first moment [she] touched it.” Beginning with simple and functional pottery, her craft has developed over the decades and she is now recognized internationally for her work, in particular her contemporary vessels which pair complex colours and textures with simple, flowing lines and natural materials. This juxtaposition speaks to the quality of Mary’s work; the result of her own creativity and many years of practice.
While she has made a name for herself as a master potter and could certainly choose to spend all of her time creating experimental art, Mary can still be found making plates, teapots and mugs on her wheel regularly. Citing her love of creating ceramics that can be touched and utilized, as well as the relaxing practice of forming these more simplistic pieces, she adamantly makes time to create both functional and decorative works. Her purely artistic vessels, chalices, sculptures are intended to “feed you in a different way,” igniting feeling and expressing beauty.
Mary’s studio is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 11 am to 5 pm. She is available on Sundays and Mondays by chance or by appointment.
