While escaping to Florida from the cold and dreary northeast in March, we happened upon a magnificent show of work by Rose B. Simpson at the Norton Museum in West Palm Beach. Journeys of Clay presents a comprehensive collection of Ms. Simpson’s work from the last 10 years.
Rose B. Simpson was the keynote speaker at NCECA in 2023. Anyone who heard her speak will attest to her extraordinary vision and lifelong history with clay. It is estimated her family has been making pots for 70 generations. Besides impressing us with her many figurative sculptures during her lecture at NCECA, her painting an El Camino car as a Santa Clara Pueblo pot had the audience both bedazzled and delighted!
Seeing Ms. Simpson’s work in person at the Norton had a similar effect. Much to the credit of the Norton Museum, they have made a concerted effort to acknowledge acclaimed women artists with their Art by Women exhibitions. This dynamic show presents Ms. Simpson’s work from the last decade.
Two Selves
Vital Organ
Bridge
One can not help but feel you are entering a sacred space inhabited by towering spirit women who embody both strength and boldness. The sculptures speak to the power of womanhood, the wonder of motherhood, and the wisdom of the Kha’p’oe Owingeh elders. It was a magical experience entering the show and feeling you were entering the heart and mind of one of the finest ceramic artists of this decade.
