Vessels & Voids, an experimental exhibit open through September 28 at VisArts in Rockville, examines the connection between fluidity in architecture and the ceramic arts.

New technologies inspired curator Rebecca Cross to put together the show. “Advancements in computer-aided design have given rise to buildings that can take on any form, while livable dwellings can be 3D-printed from clay,” she marvels. “These parallel breakthroughs open up possible new approaches to architecture, while artists who work in clay can offer inspiration to architects to think in a more plastic vocabulary.”

The exhibit presents drawings, sketches and concept studies by 13 local architects: Ankie Barnes, Melinda Becker, Janet Bloomberg, Wouter Boer, Olivia Demetriou, Phil Esocoff, David Jameson, Michael Marshall, Mark McInturff, Robert Sponseller, Dhiru Thadani, Amy Weinstein and Christian Zapatka.

In tandem, a display of clay vessels and sculptural works by a host of ceramic artists mirrors the expressive and structural possibilities of organic architecture. “I’m hoping visitors will see the dialogue between architects’ drawings and the shapes of the ceramic vessels that might inspire new forms in the future,” explains Cross, who collaborated on the exhibit with emerging curator Storm Bookhard.

Vessels & Voids: Architects and Ceramic Artists Explore Organic Spaces