Bowl c. 1970

Curator: This is Richard Batterham’s simply titled "Bowl," residing here in the Tate Collection. Editor: The bowl has a quiet, almost serene quality to it. It's unassuming, yet the craftsmanship is evident. Curator: Precisely. Batterham was known for his commitment to traditional pottery methods and using locally sourced clay. He highlights the inherent qualities of the material. Editor: You can see the maker's hand in the subtle imperfections of the glaze. The repeated geometric pattern around the bowl feels almost like an industrial mimicry, yet it still holds the warmth of handmade design. It's a fascinating tension. Curator: It's tempting to interpret those subtle marks as an expression of the artist's intent, a desire to merge form and function in a harmonious whole. Editor: Perhaps, but I also think it reflects the value of labor and the beauty found in the everyday object. It bridges the gap between art and utility. Curator: Indeed, seeing it this way expands the narrative from the aesthetic to the socio-economic. Editor: Looking at it with that perspective, it’s a reminder of art’s connection to the processes of crafting, forming, and molding.