Recent work by Sean H. Fairbridge

UNC Asheville senior Sean Hewitt Fairbridge is not a conventional potter. The grandson of acclaimed Australian geologist Rhodes Whitmore Fairbridge, he has a close connection to the earth running in his veins. Sean Fairbridge is called to create works of art from local Turkey Creek pipe clay – without screening out the rocks, hard bits of clay and other organic matter that represent the living earth from which he draws his inspiration.

Fairbridge’s senior exhibition, “Teaism: Connecting to the Geology of Life,” features recent works made from local clay. Some 30 ceramic and mixed media pieces will be on view January 19-31 at UNC Asheville’s University Gallery. An opening reception will be held from 6-10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19, in the gallery. The show is the culmination of Fairbridge’s work toward a bachelor of fine arts degree from UNC Asheville.

His connections to the earth led Fairbridge to consider the impact that ceramic glaze materials have on the environment. When fired, many glazes become hazardous material filled with heavy metals. However, when the glazes are melted into a glass solution, the heavy metals are safely encapsulated and immobilized – and a new art form is created. Fairbridge and UNC Asheville art alum Hayden Wilson will demonstrate the dramatic glass pouring technique at the exhibition’s opening reception.

The opening reception will feature a glass pouring performance

Fairbridge’s work is inspired not just by local clay, but also his recent travels in Japan. While there he was taken by the Japanese Tea Ceremony and how tea is woven into the culture. “The ceramics and the people that I encountered during my travels have created the dialogue that shaped the forms and ideas of my work,” Fairbridge said.

Fairbridge dedicates “Teaism: Connecting to the Geology of Life” to his grandfather who passed away last fall at the age of 92. Professor Fairbridge was proud of his grandson’s connection to the earth and filled his e-mails to friends and colleagues with stories about Sean's pottery and travels to Japan.

UNC Asheville’s University Gallery, located on the ground floor of Owen Hall, is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays. Admission is free. For more information, call UNC Asheville’s Art Department at 828/251-6559.