Julie Bartholomew
Location
Gadigal/Sydney, NSW
About
Dr Julie Bartholomew is a craft artist, educator and writer. Bartholomew has maintained a high research and exhibition profile through academic studies, exhibitions in Australia and abroad, published articles and international art
residencies.
Through her art practice Bartholomew explores contemporary issues and social debates. Since 2010, her practice has responded to environmental concerns with the intention of creating conversations around species extinction and our climate
emergency.
Bartholomew has been extensively involved with art education as an academic and university lecturer. She was Head of Ceramics at the Australian National University in Canberra and the University of South Australia. Her academic achievements culminated in the award of a Doctorate of Fine Arts.
The artist’s experimental practice has been fostered by numerous art residencies. These include the Australia Council’s Studio in Tokyo, the Red Gate Residency in Beijing, Asialink in Taiwan, the Taoxichuan International Residency in Jingdezhen, China, the Gujarat Global Art Festival in India and Resident Artist at Canberra Glassworks, 2023. Bartholomew’s work is held in public collections including the National Gallery of Australia and the National Museum of Australia in Canberra, Yingge Ceramics Museum in Taiwan and the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art
Museum, USA.
Artist Statement
Activism in Australian Ceramics
Contemporary ceramic art practices are making a significant contribution to art activism, which now pervades across media, reflecting troubled times exacerbated by shifting geopolitical powerplays and totalitarian governance.
As a craft-based contemporary art practice, Ceramic art often has an edge over artworks from other disciplines as carriers of subversive intent. The affinity generated by ceramics does more than simply inform audiences; it physically
captures, engages, and draws empathy. Ceramics are capable of embracing contentious subject matter in unique ways, and on its own terms. Activism in Australian Ceramics is the title of this presentation which brings together artists who address some of today's pressing issues and challenges. While not
providing definitive resolutions, the provocative works discussed in this presentation allude to issues such as war, injustice, social discord, a waning faith in political systems, notions of truth, and our global climate crisis – and thus strike powerful chords. These creators emphasise the role of the artist as activist, making work that can spark debate, sway opinion, or encourage engagement with major issues of our time.