Brad Schwieger 2006
New Constructions
May 6th - 27th, 2006
Charlie Cummings Clay Studio is pleased to present nationally renowned artist Brad Schwieger in
the first solo exhibition of his new work. The show features a
selection of colorful, abstract, sculptural forms executed in soda fired stoneware. With this
body of work, Schwieger shows that thrown forms can be transformed to an extent which transcends
the symmetry inherent in the traditional aesthetic.
The unique finishes featured on Brad's pieces are created by spraying soda and salt into the
red-hot kiln during the firing process. The sodium released interacts with the glaze, producing
variations on the surface of the pieces and enhancing the linear quality of the faceted surfaces
he has created. On unglazed surfaces the soda creates flashing, blushes, and a luminous sense of
depth and richness.
Brad Schwieger is Professor of Art at Ohio University, who's work has been featured in Ceramics
Monthly, Ceramics Art and Perception, American Craft and numerous other journals
and publications. Brad's work has been included in over 75 national and international shows. In
addition, he had presented workshops and lectures at more than 60 universities, colleges and art
centers throughout the world. Brad Schwieger is one of the most prominent and prolific ceramic
artists currently working in the United States.
Click here to view the
exhibition. Please contact Charlie at (260) 458-9160 or
charlie@claylink.com if you are interested in
purchasing any of the pieces featured in the show. Please include the artist's name,
title, and item number in your correspondence.
Purchase Policies
Artist Statement
My work is informed by my interest in both historical and contemporary pottery. My ideas
often examine utility; however, I feel my work can also function as a sculptural or decorative
object.
More recently I have been exploring various styles of architecture. I find an interesting
parallel between architecture and pottery. Like architecture, pottery deals with elements of
form and structure, interior/exterior, utility or containment, surface detail and adornment.
Form is the most essential element in my work. My secondary focus is to develop different types
of surfaces that will enhance and support the form. I have explored surface by continuous
testing of ceramic materials, kiln design, kiln construction and firing.
My work is wheel thrown an altered. The altering process consists of faceting, stretching and
cutting up sections of the form and reassembling them. These techniques temper the symmetry of
the wheel thrown process. I am often concerned with the formal elements of design. How do the
parts relate to the whole? How can the whole transcend the parts? How can each piece become an
original interpretation of the larger idea?
Many people, places and pottery have influenced me in my life. My intention is to keep my work
evolving and changing, responding to my experiences.
~ Brad Schwieger
