Cade Lucas
The Ceramics Showcase at Wyndham Park Community Centre is the culmination of a year’s work from the centre’s ceramics students.
But for their teacher, Melissa Murphy-Vella, the exhibition represents her whole artistic career coming full-circle.
“My interest in ceramics began when I was quite young, maybe 10 or 11 years old.” said Ms Murphy-Vella, who lives in Manor Lakes.
“My mum used to be a participant in classes similar to what I’m teaching. Then I went onto high school and had an amazing art teacher who was really encouraging.”
The encouragement from that teacher resulted in Ms Murphy-Vella studying ceramics and then teaching it herself for more than 20 years and now, passing her skills onto the woman who sparked her interest to begin with.
“She’s now one of my students” she said of her former teacher, local Wyndham artist Melissa Lazardies.
“She’s expanding her skills. It’s been lovely reconnecting with the teacher who inspired me to take up art.”
Ms Lazarides is one of 37 participants in Wyndham Park’s ceramics program who will have their work exhibited from December 3 through to February 7.
Ms Murphy-Vella said there’s a broad range of ceramics on display.
“Everyone’s got their own style,’ she said.
“Because it’s very learner focussed, our students were able to work on their own themes and the exhibition is very diverse.”
Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/venues/wyndham-park-community-centre
