RareTigerlily
McCulloughA_mementomorilargebowl01
Allora McCullough, Memento Mori I, 2018, Glazed Terracotta with Majolica, 10.5" diameter x 2.5" depth
Artist Statement:
I am interested in creating environments that foster conversations around uncomfortable topics. Subjects such as death, racism, abuse, and sexual violence are not deemed appropriate for polite conversation. However, these issues affect everyone. I research human psychology, social justice, and world religions to make these concepts palatable. An open platform to talk about painful circumstances and injustices is necessary to bring about social change. My ceramic sculpture installations present life-sized human, plant, and animal figures in subtle narratives. Using the non-threatening guise of familiar creatures makes these concepts approachable. I am actively transforming exhibition spaces to become catalysts for difficult conversations.
My functional series is an extension of these ideas into a more accessible format. Many people rarely, if ever, venture to their local art museums or galleries. They do however gather around the table to share meals with their communities. My Memento Mori wares have been welcomed in many artisan and craft centers where they are sold to locals and tourists alike. The imagery on these pieces provides a subtle reminder to users that life is short and worth enjoying.
McCulloughA_mementomorilargebowl01
Allora McCullough, Memento Mori I, 2018, Glazed Terracotta with Majolica, 10.5" diameter x 2.5" depth
Artist Statement:
I am interested in creating environments that foster conversations around uncomfortable topics. Subjects such as death, racism, abuse, and sexual violence are not deemed appropriate for polite conversation. However, these issues affect everyone. I research human psychology, social justice, and world religions to make these concepts palatable. An open platform to talk about painful circumstances and injustices is necessary to bring about social change. My ceramic sculpture installations present life-sized human, plant, and animal figures in subtle narratives. Using the non-threatening guise of familiar creatures makes these concepts approachable. I am actively transforming exhibition spaces to become catalysts for difficult conversations.
My functional series is an extension of these ideas into a more accessible format. Many people rarely, if ever, venture to their local art museums or galleries. They do however gather around the table to share meals with their communities. My Memento Mori wares have been welcomed in many artisan and craft centers where they are sold to locals and tourists alike. The imagery on these pieces provides a subtle reminder to users that life is short and worth enjoying.