The Golden Mean
Wendy Thurgate
The Golden Mean (detail) 2026
White porcelain
Black and white stoneware glazes and gold lustre over glaze
Multiple pieces: 42 x 42 x 26 cm overall
About the Artwork
One idea behind the making of this grouping is the ‘golden ratio’ or phi. Proportions have always been something important in my ceramics, but I have never considered using a mathematical equation to enhance the aesthetics of my work. Due to the sometimes unpredictability and shrinkage of clay, my version of phi may not strictly adhere to the rules of the Pythagoreans. But I did try.
The other consideration for these pieces is movement—inspired by my lifelong love of dance. The pots themselves are static, so I wanted to contrast this with a sense of lift, light, fluidity, and movement in the decoration.
About the Artist
Wendy Thurgate is a ceramic artist, born and raised in Townsville, but calls Sydney home. She has an Associate Diploma of Ceramics from St George TAFE, Sydney (1995), and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Ceramics) from the National Art School, Sydney (2005). Her work is often shaped by Wendy’s immediate surroundings—either where she is living or has travelled to, and the natural environment in which these places exist. More recently, her work is being influenced by movement in dance, inspired from childhood memories of taking ballet, as well as her love of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Wendy has worked with painters she greatly admires, such as John Olsen, Peter Godwin, and Ann Thomson.