A RISK-taking artist who aims to explore the possibilities of pottery and sculpture has brought his thought-provoking work to Blackwell, The Arts and Crafts House, in Bowness.

Hampshire-based Gareth Mason, a ceramics lecturer, is displaying his work at an exhibition, An Unfolding Narrative, throughout the rest of May and until June 10.

For Mason, "risk is essential" and the need to experiment is what inspires him to come up with such unique creations: by burning patches of his bowls and pots and by merging different sculptures together, he is able to test the boundaries of beauty.

The clay he uses becomes more than a mere material, it is a record of a performance, a moment in time that can never be repeated.

Mason, who spent a formative part of his learning at the International Workshop of Ceramic Art, in Tokoname, Japan, explains this need very easily. He says: "I want to explore what I can reveal. I am more interested in relaxing my grip than seeking to control the outcome."

He goes on to say: "Clay is a sensual and addictive material. I am never sated. My inclination is always to push.' Clay affords me moments where heart, hand and fire converge to create an arresting, disturbing beauty. These are the moments that spur me."

His eye-catching works include an encrusted jar with celadon glaze, and an awe-inspiring three component porcelain vase with celadon and red glaze.

Mason's creations allow even the most casual browser to be drawn in and to question the very idea of symmetry, while learning to appreciate the importance of form and structure in art.

For more information on the exhibition contact Blackwell on 015394-46139 or visit www.blackwell.org.uk