Two exhibitions - a solo show by ceramist Frances Priest and an exhibition of new work by jeweller Ann Little - have opened at the Scottish Gallery in Edinburgh.

The exhibition ‘Surface & Shape’ is an exhibition of new ceramic forms by Frances Priest in which she explores the idea of shape as a means of exploring relationships and uses surface pattern to help describe, define and contrast shapes. In a visit to Japan earlier this year she researched the nature and use of surface pattern in Japanese woven textiles and this has formed the basis of her new pieces.  She has moved from purely line based drawing into planes of rich surface embedded into the body of the clay.

Frances studied at Edinburgh College of Art and her  work is held in many collections including the National Museums of Scotland, the International Museum of Ceramics in Italy and the International Museum of Contemporary Ceramics.

Jeweller Ann Little, who also trained at Edinburgh College of Art, was awarded a Creative Development Award by the Scottish Arts Council to develop her new work for the ‘Changing Light’ exhibition.  Inspired by her surroundings and nature she creates sculptural shapes adding vibrant and subtle colours through her imaginative use of enamel.

The two exhibitions are on at the Scottish Gallery, 16 Dundas Street, Edinburgh EH3 6HZ from 5 August until 7 September 2005.  Opening hours are Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm and Saturday 10am to 4pm.