ASU Art Museum Ceramics Center & Brickyard Gallery: Impressive New Home in Tempe
I attended the grand opening of the ASU Art Museum Ceramics Center & Brickyard Gallery at its new Tempe location last Friday evening and was truly impressed by the expanded space. Situated just off Mill Avenue in the former Borders Bookstore section of the Brickyard, it offers far greater visibility than its previous spot across from the ASU Art Museum in an old strip mall, known then as the Ceramics Research Center.
The center showcases a remarkable collection of nearly 4,000 ceramic pieces by renowned international artists spanning several decades. A selection is permanently displayed in glass cases, organized by decade from the 1950s through the 1980s. Each case includes labels highlighting key developments in ceramics, seminal artists, and representative works. The collection features diverse styles—from abstract and organic forms to massive sculptural pieces, delicate miniatures, and traditional wheel-thrown vessels with innovative glazes and colors. This breadth is best appreciated in person.
The event also marked the retirement of curator Peter Held, who has led the center since 2003. His tenure brought exceptional exhibitions, such as last year’s showcase of Hopi artist Margaret Tafoya and her descendants, and MUCK, on view at the ASU Art Museum through May 31. His final exhibition, These are a Few of My Favorite Things, explores collecting passions through cabinets of curiosities, knick-knacks, and tableaus from local artists, designers, and the public. It runs July 19–October 4, 2014.
Ceramics enthusiasts and newcomers alike will find inspiration here. Located at the northwest corner of 10th Street and Mill Avenue. Hours: Tuesdays 11 a.m.–8 p.m. (May–August until 5 p.m.); Wednesday–Saturday 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free admission. Visit asuartmuseum.asu.edu/ceramicsresearchcenter/ or call 480-965-2787 for details.
