Show celebrates style, skill and lifelong learning of master potter

A RETROSPECTIVE exhibition of works by the late prolific Ballarat ceramicist Peter Pilven will open this weekend at Ross Creek Gallery.

Curated by his daughter – fellow ceramicist and gallery owner-operator, Ruby Pilven – The Master Potter: Peter Pilven opens this Saturday 3 May between 1pm and 4pm, and celebrates the life and skill of the artist and university teacher who died in December of 2024.Peter was a potter for more than 50 years and lectured for more than 40.

Ruby said the pots and sculptures within the exhibition showcase diversity and innovation in creativity and style, and date from the early-1980s to a week before her dad passed.

“His talent was extraordinary, and his passion for pottery was matched only by his dedication to teaching and inspiring generations of artists,” she said.

“He not only enjoyed teaching but learning himself… and never understood how some artists can do the same thing over and over again. He always said to me, ‘I’m still learning’.

“This exhibition showcases his incredible skill, creativity, and lifelong commitment to the craft.

“Through this collection, I honour my father’s legacy; his artistry, his influence as a teacher, and the profound impact he had on both the pottery world and the lives of those who knew him.

“This exhibition is a tribute to his enduring spirit and incredible talent. He was an incredible thrower.”

Ruby said choosing what should be displayed has been cathartic and, in many ways, simple.

“He had a display room in his house of all his favourite pots,” she said. “I also knew Dad so well, and I knew which ones were his prized things that he loved and would never sell.

“Mum also knew which pieces were significant, and important.”

The show is also an opportunity to purchase some of Peter’s works. Proceeds will go to the charities he supported – Uniting Care and Beyond Blue – and to support his young grandchildren.

Ross Creek Gallery is at 183 Post Office Road, Smythes Creek, on the site of the old Ross Creek Pottery.

“Mum and Dad built the house and studio, and I named this gallery in homage to both my parents,” Ruby said.

“It’s only necessary that the exhibition be here. It’s like Dad is back home with his pots.”

The exhibition closes on Sunday 8 June. The gallery is open every weekend, 11am to 4pm, or by appointment.