This exhibition was selected from the extensive ceramics collection of Judy Kefford (1927-2021). It comes to WAS through the generous support of Janice Hunter and Bruce Kefford who are custodians of Judy’s collection, now housed in West Gippsland. Judy Kefford graduated in Science from the University of Melbourne (rare for women at that time) and was a foundation member of the Women Electoral Lobby.
Judy’s interests included creating ‘haute couture’ fashion for larger sizes (not often available at the time), studying gemmology and jewellery making and becoming qualified with a teaching diploma in Ikebana from the Sogestu school. She, of course, had a particular interest in ceramics, especially by Australian and Japanese potters.Being an Ikebana practitioner, Judy’s home featured many of her floral creations, a particular joy was to combine Ikebana with one of her many pots. All this creativity filled a unique home and extensive bush garden in Red Hill, Victoria.
The Kefford family was surrounded by the passion and creativity of Judy and her art collections. This was of particular inspiration to her daughter in law, Janice, who is an artist in her own right. Janice studied art, had a solo exhibition at WAS Gallery in 2024 and is also training in Ikebana. It is now her and Bruce’s beautiful home and garden that provides an impressive backdrop for the artwork and ensures the continuity of such an impressive collection.
This exhibition was curated by WAS artist/potter, Gary McPhedran
Ikebana practitioners, Aileen Clarke and Susan Healey, gave demonstrations at WAS Gallery at the opening on 14 June, 2025.
