This exhibition explores diverse ceramic practices within Australia and beyond.
Attuning to the sensual, plastic qualities of clay, along with the development of ceramics as both functional objects, and symbol of power and privilege, Dirt Feeling explores inherent dichotomies within this fascinating medium. Through the alchemy of vitrification, base materials (with all their associations of excrement and death) are transformed into commodities of beauty in the hands of skilled practitioners. Dirt Feeling reminds us of the pleasures of our senses, bringing us back to our bodies, to a felt reality.
Drawing from the Curtin University Art Collection, the exhibition features artworks dating across the history of the University, from WAIT’s inception in 1960s to the present day.
Exhibition Details
Opening Event: 2 October 2025
Exhibition Open: 3 October – 7 December 2025
Supported By: Curtin University Art Collection
Artists include:
Glenn Barkley, Joan Campbell, Pippin Drysdale, Penny Evans, Judith Pungarta Inkamala, Eileen Keys, Warrick Palmateer, Josina Pumani, Hiroe Swen, Angela Valamanesh, and many more.
Header Image: Josina Pumani, Maralinga, 2025, hand-built stoneware, underglaze, 47 x 43 cm. Curtin University Art Collection, purchased 2025. Courtesy of the artist and APY Galleries. Image courtesy of the Jam Factory, Adelaide with Josina Pumani, Maralinga, 2024, hand-built stoneware, underglaze, 40 x 35 cm. Curtin University Art Collection, purchased 2025. Courtesy of the artist and APY Galleries. Image courtesy of the Jam Factory, Adelaide.
Gallery images: Image 1: Pippin Drysdale, Bungle Bungle, 2007-2013, glazed porcelain, dimensions variable. Curtin University Art Collection. Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program by Pippin Drysdale, 2021. Courtesy of the artist. Photographer: Robert Frith. Image 2: Glenn Barkley, YouveGotEverythingNow Amphora, 2023, glazed earthenware, 37 x 14 x 6.5 cm. Curtin University Art Collection, purchased 2023. Courtesy of the artist and Sullivan + Strumpf. Image 3: Erin Ginty, Artefact #3, 2022, glazed stoneware, 14 x 26 x 21 cm. Curtin University Art Collection, acquired 2022. Image 4: Judith Pungarta Inkamala, Namatjira family picnic at Impurtna, earthenware and underglazes, 40 x 34.5 cm. Curtin University Art Collection, purchased 2025. Courtesy of the artist, Hermannsburg Potters and Sabbia Gallery. Image 5: Angela Valamanesh, Outside / Inside #A, 2008, unglazed ceramic, 10 parts, 55 x 155 x 5.5 cm. Purchased with funds donated through Curtin Foundation, 50fifty Acquisition Initiative, 2018. Courtesy of the artist and GAGPROJECTS, Adelaide. Photographer: M Kluvanek.
