Robert Archambeau awarded Manitoba Arts Council's Manitoba Arts Award of Distinction

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Robert Archambeau

Internationally acclaimed ceramic artist Robert Archambeau has been named the recipient of the 2014 Manitoba Arts Award of Distinction, and the Manitoba Arts Council will be honoring him with a reception at the Winnipeg Art Gallery on May 15.

“Robert Archambeau is a true artist, one whose passion and need to create supersedes most other needs,” says Stephen Borys, WAG Director & CEO. “Even though he is now in his eighties, the drive is as urgent as ever and his production remains prolific and remarkable. The WAG has always had a close association with Bob, in collecting his works (36 ceramics and 7 prints) and in displaying them in group and solo exhibitions, most recently in the winter of 2012/13. We couldn’t be happier that he has received this award.”

Born and educated in the US, Robert Archambeau taught at the Rhode Island School of Design prior to accepting a teaching position at the University of Manitoba, where he headed the ceramics program until his retirement in 1991. A frequent guest artist at colleges and institutions, he has traveled extensively throughout the world and has exhibited internationally. He was the 2003 recipient of the Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts. In 2004 he became Professor Emeritus at the University of Manitoba in recognition of his 23 years of teaching excellence. In recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the field of ceramics, he was awarded Honorary Member status at the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Artists.

“Robert’s name is synonymous with exceptional vessel making in North America and beyond, particularly in the field of wood-fired ceramics,” says Helen Delacretaz, WAG Chief Curator. “Positioned in commercial settings or in group exhibitions next to the work of others, his pots stand out, they exert a presence, both quiet and strong. His is a need, not a want, to create. The act of creation is as essential to him as breathing.”

Archambeau was profiled by Amy Karlinsky in Galleries West at the time of an exhibition at the Winnipeg Art Gallery honouring his 2003 Governor General's Award in the Visual Arts.

Report Courtesy Winnipeg Art Gallery