Alistair Aynscombe-Danhieux Ann Van Hoey

February 24 - March 21, 2024

Ann Van Hoey, Dark-brown Object n°371, 2024, stoneware and engobe, h.23 x 17 x 17 cm.-Alistair Danhieux, Untitled n°36, 2024, handbuilt stoneware vessel, h. 32cm, d. 16 cm.

For its reopening after the annual February closure, the Galerie de l'Ancienne Poste in Toucy presents its traditional exhibition of duo works by the gallery's permanent artists, this year featuring the abstract vase shapes of the Puisaye-based British artist. Alistair Danhieux and the clean, contemporary monochrome works by Belgian ceramist Ann Van Hoey. Both artists were keen to present new works created especially for this exhibition. Ann Van Hoey has returned to smaller formats and the practice of her beginnings, leaving her two-tone pieces in bare clay - which here contrasts pleasantly with warm orange and tonic blue. While the palette ranges from leathery brown to dark brown, matching the graphic landscape tones that run through Alistair Danhieux's tall forms.

Born in Belgium in 1956, Ann Van Hoey first trained as a sales engineer, then developed a passion for ceramics and switched professions. Recently exhibited at the prestigious Brafa in Brussels, her work is world-renowned and has won numerous awards. She was recently appointed Commander of the Order of the Belgian Crown. Her work can be found at MAD in New York and in public collections in Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Ireland, Hungary, China and Japan..

After many trips to Europe, India and Africa. Alistair Danhieux (b. 1975) moved to Puisaye in 2003. His first exhibition at the Galerie de l'Ancienne Poste in Toucy in 2009 featured works in bare raku, followed in 2014 by vases closed by wooden collars and decorated in black on a white background with motifs inspired by his travels. He joins the gallery's permanent artists and joins the board of directors in 2012. His work can be found in the collections of the Musée National de Céramique de Sèvres.