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Jay Anderson

ABSORPTION CASTINGS

05.01.20 - 10.20.20

About the Show

Words from the artist about the process:

The "Absorption Castings" are ceramics sculptures created by a very simple and almost comical method of submerging paper towel rolls into a bucket of liquid clay called slip. The drenched rolls are set out to dry for nearly a month after which they are bisque fired in a kiln, incinerating the paper within, leaving only a shell of the original form. These forms closely resemble ceramic vessels in size and shape but with a hole on both top and bottom, making them non-functional objects.

The glazing procedure that follows is less straightforward. This process is more of a back and forth between artist and form. Many of the pieces appear to be glazed white but with a closer look, they can be seen to have delicate crazing lines that are often accented with a wash of Sumi ink, which is commonly used in Japanese ceramics. Other pieces are glazed with bright colors that are multi-layered, often undergoing several kiln firings.

The pieces are intended to pose a simple challenge to the viewer: think about conflicting expectations.

Consider the relationship between functional objects and non functional objects. Consider the perception of value and durability, or playfulness and the importance of visual simplicity or visual complexity in an object. Think about how these things relate to one another, complement one another or coexist

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Jay Anderson

Jay Anderson received his MFA from the School of Visual Arts, New York in 2010, BA in Interdisciplinary Visual Art and a BA in Art History from the University of Washington in 2007. His work has been exhibited in New York, Seattle and Berlin, Germany; he lives and works in Walla Walla, Washington.

Jay Anderson
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