Ceramist Stowell Michael uses Guyana’s natural resources to create masterpieces
By Venesssa Deosaran
Artist and ceramist, Stowell Michael, has been creating fine art since he was a small boy, and has perfected his skill in producing functional artistic creations over the years.
Stowell (left) and his brother Kirk
Stowell was born in Berbice, then he moved to Soesdyke and then to New Hope on the East Bank of Demerara. His sister noted his creativity in making small figurines for the home, and later signed him up for a programme at the Burrowes School of Art. There he received a well-rounded training in all aspects of art, and graduated in 1998.
At first, he was painting, but due to the expenses incurred, he decided to work with clay, experimenting with both the white and red types.
“I started in 2006 experimenting with bigger projects using the red and white clay. I was majoring in painting, and after a while, seeing clay was more feasible, I switched. I still paint but not on such a large scale. I still draw the backgrounds of displays when I’m exhibiting the clay pieces,” he told Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, in an interview.
He mentioned that art is one of a kind, and as such he refuses to replicate his art work. His aim is to show that artists can use Guyana’s natural resources in making masterpieces. He added that he uses local quality clay for high quality art.
“Not a lot of persons know of the creativity using clay, and only by exposure can they enjoy and appreciate it – that’s why we participate in GuyExpo. By means of this exhibition, I am able to showcase Guyana’s talent using our natural resources. I saw there was more support for clay art, and they (the Guyanese and overseas people) are fascinated with my creations,” he noted.
Stowell's castle at GuyExpo
This year for GuyExpo, Stowell displayed a towering castle, with all the works of a carriage, and a tropical scene. It was built in a period of three years, he stated, including the smaller figurines and other souvenirs he has to sell, to cover his expenses.
“The castle was the highlight of the GuyExpo evenings. Many came in search to see it. I was amazed as to how many came to see it. I expended much time and finances in producing it. It has a polished finish both outside and inside, with a staircase made from clay, and polished floor. I built it so that younger generations can get an idea and learn to work with the local clay in creating even bigger edifices.”
Stowell, 37, said he values the clay castle at GUY $6 million, but for those interested in buying it, he can negotiate a better price. He added that the reason he values it at such a price is that he spent all he had, both financially and in time, on creating it so that persons could enjoy the beauty of it. He used 1 X ½ inch small blocks of clay to make the gigantic life-size castle.
Stowell's boat exhibited at National Museum
The artist added he is only willing to sell the castle if it will be placed in the public’s view and not stored away in a private collection. He wants foreigners to see the talent we possess in Guyana so that they can also invest in our artists here.
His creations are hand-made and intricately designed. This combination makes his work distinct as a clay artist. He works on an apparatus, which he made from a bicycle wheel and pedal. He would also use items such as a roti pan and other local materials to make wheels for the carriages figurines.
“A few years ago I made a ship bought by a business and donate to the National Museum. It had pirates, treasure chests and jewelry, all made from clay. There were intricate details that took a lot of patience and time, especially in creating the smaller pieces figurines,” Stowell stated.
Additionally, he mentioned that he has many other ideas to create life-size art pieces but will not replicate his work, as he sees that, not as true art. He currently works at home, firing his clay, glazing it and ensuring it goes through the right processes for quality works of art.
Stowell’s brother, Kirk Michael, who is also his manager, said that artists like his brother need more exposure, and he suggests that exhibitions, specifically to showcase Guyanese artists should be presented. Also awards should be given out to artists for their originality and use of local materials; this, he said, would encourage others to want to stay here and produce quality art.
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