Grayson Perry's pretty little art career in Sydney

I have struggled to recognise Grayson Perry as an important British artist and art commentator. I have perceived his attempts to shock as somewhat ironic given his traditional use of the more conservative forms of pottery. More recently, I have been slowly and steadily rethinking my perceptions of this artist. The recent comprehensive exhibition of his work from the early 80's to the present at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney certainly helped. I like the way exhibitions of contemporary artists often include informative and explanatory videos of and by the artists.

On this occasion, I enjoyed seeing the repetitive and highly skilled craftsmanship of creating and illustrating the giant pots that Grayson has made a hallmark of his career. I realise that he has actually worked to individually create each pot as his 3d canvas for his creative messages, which are themselves composed of multiple scenes and images. Often the connection is evident, but there are times when it eluded me - and then I could admire the detailed drawing or collage. I also enjoyed his 2d drawings, especially his copies of mandalas, mind maps and large story boards. Hidden throughout the exhibition were a rage of small and large sculptures which were also intriguing. I really was totally impressed by his full wall tapestries - even though he has them mechanically made, which is yet another ironic twist! But overall, I can see a man who intellectually knows and respects traditions, to a point, and then he bombards us with words, images and connections which challenge the way we view his images. So his rebel message is often more intellectually crafted than is first apparent. However, it is very English and in that way, is somewhat globally naive. I think the more I see his work and understand his preoccupations with sexual and class identity the better I can read each piece.