Ōhinehou, Lyttleton based artist Cheryl Lucas pushes the physical and conceptual possibilities of the ceramic artform, describing it as “the perfect medium to convey even the most unpalatable truths”.

This richly illustrated publication was designed in collaboration with Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū to accompany a major solo exhibition of Lucas’s work. The book was to be simple but playful. Described as “ceramics made for the eyes and mind” it was important that Cheryl’s work fill the pages without distraction.

Inspired by the artist’s practice we focussed on form and scale, keeping all other design elements neutral in favour of large scale images illustrating the intricate crackling of glaze and the tactile nature of the clay body up close — allowing readers to scrutinise the maker’s craft beyond what might be considered appropriate in a gallery setting.