‘The first impulse of the maker of hand pottery is to obtain pleasure in making and decorating an article, and making that pleasure intelligible to others…’ – Merric Boyd, 1930
The vibrant, abundant and joyful exhibition Fantastic Forms, celebrating the creativity of the human imagination through drawing, ceramics, sculpture and animation, will be on show at David Roche Gallery from February 17 to May 9, 2026.
Featuring more than 200 drawings and ceramics from the Bundanon Collection (NSW), Fantastic Forms captures the energy, movement and colour in the expansive creative practice of Merric Boyd (1888-1959) in dialogue with three very different practices by living Australian artists – Rubyrose Bancroft, Stephen Benwell and Nabilah Nordin.
David Roche Gallery Director Robert Reason says the team is honoured to bring this exhibition to the state for its only South Australian appearance.
“The exhibition’s seamless blend of traditional disciplines—like sculpture and ceramics—with animation and drawing is inspiring. The artistic lineage of the Boyd family is widely celebrated as is Merric Boyd’s pioneering role as Australia’s first studio potter. To see so many of his drawings, however, is a rare and captivating privilege, an insight into Boyd’s creative process. Together with his ceramics, the drawings have made a deep impression on the work of three selected contemporary artists. I can’t wait for our visitors to immerse themselves in such a rich variety of artistic expressions,” he says.
Fantastic Forms expands from Merric Boyd’s well-known ceramic work into his energetic and playful drawing practice from the 1940s and 50s, all of which were underpinned by the spiritual philosophy of love and connection that ran through his work and family life. A cornerstone of the Bundanon Collection, Merric Boyd’s artwork reflects the strong influence he had on his son Arthur, both as an artist and as someone committed to a deeply creative life.
Merric Boyd was known for curvilinear ceramics that referenced forms from the natural world. His use of organic shapes and rhythmic lines were in keeping with Art Nouveau style and his experimentation with hand building and traditional throwing techniques was influential on ceramic art in Australia.
Where: David Roche Gallery, 241 Melbourne St, North Adelaide
When: 17th February 2026 to 9th May 202, open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-4pm (closed Sundays, Mondays, Public Holidays)
Cost: Adult $12 | Concession $10 | DRG Member $9 | Children U12 Free
David Roche Fermoy House tours are conducted: 10am, 12noon, 2pm (Tickets must be prebooked online: Here)
Cost: Adult: $20 | Concession $17 (includes entry to exhibition)
For more information and events, visit rochegallery.com.au
