Flesh Vessels

Flesh Vessels is a ceramics exhibition that invites artists to investigate the inherent bond between our bodies and the ceramic forms that echo their being. Ceramics are inextricably tied to the body. Whether molded into vessels for everyday use, sculpted for aesthetic appreciation, or anything in between, clay mimics flesh and our bodies are the vessels. This ancient bond is both reflected in creation myths across cultures, where humanity is often formed from clay or echoed now in the modern day term "clay body" which ceramicists and potters use to describe the clay material utilized.   

In this exhibition, artists—both disabled and non-disabled—are encouraged to delve into the concept of the flesh vessel in a myriad of different ways.  The more we admire and observe the human body, the more alien it becomes and the more miraculous we understand it to be.  

In celebrating the uniqueness of our bodies, we extend this celebration to exercise self-love and sexuality, which includes the right to love and be loved in relationships with other people. We often face discrimination and stigma when expressing our body positivity and sexuality, and many of us, but undeniably people with disabilities, often encounter barriers in accessing physical and sexual support and health education.

The work presented will explore everything from the vessels that are our bodies to the dynamics of navigating the vessels of friendship, grief and romance. Through ceramics, we observe, dissect, and ultimately revel in the beautiful and strange uniqueness of our bodies, challenging preconceived notions and inviting others to do the same.

Through myth, material, and the act of creation, Flesh Vessels ties the timeless connection between clay and flesh to the contemporary exploration of identity, the body, and the beauty of it all.

Deatra Colbert

Raven Harper

Julio Del Rio

Luis Estrada

Brandon Harris

Max Wheaton

Alan Perez

Woody De Othello

Paz G

Narawit Christopher Gale

Kristen Stain 

Mareiwa Miller 

Nick Makanna 

Nathan Lynch 

Ben Belknap 

Em Kettner 

Nicki Green 

Paige Valentine 

Mayetta Steier 

Steen Kjorlie

Gallery Reception and "Clay Body Station" // Saturday April 12, 1 to 4pm

For a playful twist, the open reception will feature a "Clay Body Station"—an interactive ceramic experience where participants can choose from an array of uniquely crafted body parts to assemble their own whimsical, one-of-a-kind figures.  Complete with a variety of ceramic pieces and potentially vibrant clothing options, this creative workshop not only adds a layer of fun but also reinforces the exhibition's themes of self-expression, individuality, and the joy of creation.