Les Blakebrough

Leading ceramic artist

2008 TAS Senior Australian of the Year

In a career spanning five decades Les Blakebrough has become one of Australia’s most acclaimed and influential ceramic artists. The list of the solo and joint exhibitions of his works across Australian cities and regions also confirms him as prolific. His body of work has ranged from earthy, functional wares to more recent delicate forms. The beauty of the form of these later works is emphasised by the translucency and fragility of his trademarked Southern Ice Porcelain. Chasing his vision over five years, Les developed a very beautiful material that is quite special, very translucent, very white, and very easy to work with. He has made an extraordinary contribution to visual art, craft, and design in Australia as a practitioner, teacher, mentor, and visionary advocate.