Merging disparate reference points such as cartoonish figures, fluorescent pigments and classical vessels, Maxwell Mustardo‘S Anthropophorae And Gadrons brilliance of personality. The New Jersey-based artist continues to revisit (formerly) ancient forms that have been endlessly studied and reimagined in subsequent centuries, such as amphorae, cratersAnd gadroonen that celebrate tapering shapes.
“Search for new forms mainly means rediscovering old forms,” Mustardo tells Colossal. “One of my favorite aspects of ceramics, and of craft more broadly, is the evolution of surfaces and forms through their constant appropriation in the aggressive exchange that takes place between individuals, studios, cultures and time periods.”
The artist often turns to archetypes, from mugs and bottles to mathematical shapes, such as the torus– to explore countless relationships between geometry, material, history and usability. He adds, “Each form presents different limitations to contend with and a web of references to confuse.”
Mustardo currently works in the late’s studio Toshiko Takaezu (1922-2011), helping the artists’ foundation set up a residency program for ceramicists, fiber artists and painters. Find more about him website.
