Samuel J. Lurie
Beatrice Chang

Samuel Lurie and Beatrice Chang are passionate about contemporary Japanese ceramics. Their excitement and intensity were felt by all who attended this memorable Curator's Circle program, the thirtieth in the series. These New York-based connoisseurs captivated their Denver listeners as they enthusiastically described their individual perspectives on this art form. Mr. Lurie, an attorney and avid collector of many other types of art, introduced the Conversation audience to the beauty and diversity of these ceramics. Ms. Chang, a gallery director, focused on the innovative approaches of specific artists during the Workshop portion of the program.

Lurie became intrigued by non-traditional Japanese ceramics during a visit to Japan. He acquired his first pieces from the nation's department stores where he was amazed to find art galleries hosting ceramics exhibits. He has also purchased several objects from Chang's gallery, which he considers the best source outside Japan for contemporary ceramic art. His collection, now containing close to two hundred items, is displayed in his home where it is enjoyed on a daily basis.

In a dozen slides of favorite objects in his collection, Lurie provided his audience with a glimpse of the astonishing range of forms, designs, colors, and glazes employed by Japanese ceramicists today. He freely admits that his understanding of techniques used to create these pieces is limited, but his fascination with the end results seems to know no bounds. He is absolutely delighted by their exuberance, power, and originality, and often finds great sensuality and humor in them. It was clear from his lively commentary that he has great affection for his ceramics collection and tremendous respect for the artists who created the individual pieces.

Through Chang, Workshop participants had the opportunity to become acquainted with twelve of Japan's most accomplished ceramic artists. During numerous visits to the country over the past fifteen years, she has met personally with these men and women and witnessed their passionate commitment to their art. She spoke warmly and enthusiastically about each artist and the evolution of his or her unique style. Through the use of slides, she illustrated traditional and contemporary influences on their work. Chang emphasized that artists currently working in this medium are superb craftsmen. Their lengthy training and extensive experience with materials have given them a keen awareness of creative possibilities. That knowledge, combined with their technical skill and willingness to experiment, enables them to create new and distinctive forms. The fortunate attendees at this Curator's Circle event enjoyed viewing and holding some fine examples of Japanese ceramics from Chang's gallery.

Samuel Lurie and Beatrice Chang shared a wealth of information and insights during their two days in Denver. Enthralled audiences responded by posing many questions and raising issues related to researching, buying, and displaying this specific art. There is no doubt that their love of contemporary Japanese ceramics has sparked similar feelings in many of their listeners.

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