The weekend of November 23 and 24 will mark the return of one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the region: the annual Fernbank Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of ceramics and sculpture that has become a fixture on the local arts calendar for the past 13 years.
This year’s exhibition promises to be another remarkable showcase of creativity, featuring the exceptional works of artists Malcolm Boyd and Paul Gennings, whose studios and gardens in East Gippsland serve as both a source of inspiration and a living canvas for their art.
Both Malcolm and Paul are celebrated for their unique approaches to ceramics and sculpture, each drawing on the natural beauty of their surroundings to inform and inspire their work.
Living and working side by side in the quiet, picturesque landscape of Fernbank, their proximity allows for a dynamic creative exchange, producing art that is as eclectic as it is innovative.
The exhibition gives art lovers a rare opportunity to step inside the world of these two artisans and witness the spaces that nurture their imaginative processes.
Malcolm’s work is deeply rooted in his love of nature and the landscape. With more than 40 years of experience, his pieces reflect both a profound knowledge of the craft and a deep-seated reverence for the environment.
Known for his generosity in sharing both his technical expertise and his passion for the art of pottery, Malcolm’s ceramics are made using hand-dug local clay, fired in his traditional wood-fired kilns — a process that imbues his work with a warmth and authenticity that can only come from the land itself. Many of the raw materials he uses are collected locally, ensuring that each piece is not only a reflection of his skill but also of the environment that inspires him.
On the other hand, Paul’s sculptural work is a captivating blend of clay, steel and fire. His innovative use of alternative firing techniques — such as oil firing and raku – combined with the natural materials of timber and metal, results in pieces that are both strikingly modern and rooted in the organic shapes and forms of the Australian landscape.
Paul describes his process as a melding of materials, seeking to balance the aesthetics of the raw elements with the environment in which they will be displayed. His work is infused with a deep appreciation for Australian fauna and flora and he aims to create a conversation between his sculptures and their surroundings — one of harmony and connection.
Though their techniques may differ, Malcolm and Paul share a commitment to pushing the boundaries of their craft while maintaining a respect for tradition and the natural world. Together, they create an exhibition that is both varied and cohesive, offering a rare insight into the minds of two artists who continue to evolve and challenge themselves after decades of practice.
Over the years, both artists have built a strong following, with their work held in both private and public collections across Australia. Boyd and Gennings have exhibited widely in solo and group shows and Gennings has even shown his work internationally. However, it is this annual exhibition at Fernbank that
remains a highlight of their artistic calendar. It is here, in their studios and gardens, that they are able to share the fruits of their labor directly with the public — creating not just an exhibition, but an experience that connects visitors to the very heart of the creative process.
For those who appreciate the intersection of art, nature, and craftsmanship, the Fernbank Exhibition offers a rare and unmissable opportunity to see the works of two highly respected artists in an intimate setting.
This event is not just about viewing art, it’s about understanding the thought, time, and care that goes into each piece. It’s about seeing the materials, the landscapes, and the process that shape these extraordinary sculptures and ceramics.
So, mark your calendars and join Malcolm Boyd and Paul Gennings this November at 453-455 Fernbank-Glenaladale Road in Fernbank for what promises to be another unforgettable weekend of art, creativity and community.
Whether you’re a long-time admirer of their work or new to their artistic vision, you’ll find yourself inspired by the beauty and craftsmanship on display.
