Contemporary Ceramics and Wall Art Exhibition - Friday, 2 May to Friday, 9 May - 10am to 5 pm - Free entry to exhibition - Free parking

Popular Isle of Wight artist Andrew Dowden is exhibiting in the Garden Gallery, at the Island's sub-tropical Ventnor Botanic Garden.

A carpenter for 20 years, Andrew was inspired to take up ceramics whilst watching a bowl being thrown on a wheel during research for a book on Isle of Wight pottery. Each piece is individually-designed, with ideas for his distinctive handmade and hand-carved ceramic forms and wall panels being derived mainly from the countryside and shores around the Island - tracks made by man, machine and nature leaving their imprint on the earth. Hand-carving is his prime area of interest, with form being more important than function. A limited palette of glazes and slips are used, with the clay being an integral part of the surface design. More recently, influences from archaeology, architecture and machinery have been incorporated into designs adding further dimensions. Some designs have been transferred to new textured wall art, finished in oils. Display pieces are for sale.

Andrew will be in attendance during the exhibition and will be happy to answer questions about his work.

Further details: 01983 867505 www.andrewdowden.co.uk On-site cafe - Disabled access - Toilets - Gift shop

NB Details correct at posting but may be subject to change