“Unobtrusive Beauty” is an exploration of the quiet, understated elegance that lies within the everyday. At the heart of this exhibition is the Japanese concept of shibui—a term with no direct English translation, yet rich with meaning. Shibui encompasses an aesthetic rooted in subtlety, simplicity, and modesty—qualities often appreciated by those with the experience to recognize the profound in the ordinary. Shibui reflects a beauty that is both mature and nuanced, something that resonates deeply with those who understand that true elegance often whispers rather than shouts.
This exhibition presents a collection of utilitarian objects fired in a wood kiln, revealing the intersection between form, function, and human interaction. The essence of beauty in these works is not in their ornamentation, but in their unadorned utility and the natural relationship they foster between object and user. The subtle textures, muted colors, and imperfections created by the woodfire process invite viewers to look beyond the surface and appreciate the quiet, enduring charm of objects designed for everyday use.
Central to this show is the work of three artists—Randy McClelland, Colin Meston, and Richard Rowland—whose combined 80 years of woodfire experience is a testament to their dedication to the craft. The majority of the pieces on display were fired in a newly built kiln located in Naselle, Washington. Constructed by McClelland and Meston, this kiln is a hybrid cross-draft anagama with a ware chamber that holds approximately 35 cubic feet of ceramics. In May 2024, this kiln was fired for the first time, consuming nearly two cords of wood over 48 hours, in an effort that blended tradition with innovation.
“Unobtrusive Beauty” is also a tribute to the legacy of Richard Rowland, a friend and mentor to both Randy and Colin. For over two decades, they have fired anagama kilns together, drawing inspiration and wisdom from Rowland’s deep understanding of shibui principles and the woodfire process. Through this shared journey, these artists have cultivated an appreciation for the quiet beauty that shibui represents, embodied in the pieces on display.
This exhibition is not just a display of ceramics—it is an invitation to slow down and engage with the world in a way that values simplicity, naturalness, and the quiet grace found in imperfection. “Unobtrusive Beauty” encourages us to find beauty in the unnoticed, to appreciate the everyday, and to see the extraordinary in the ordinary.
