The Clay Studio Exhibits

After visiting The Center for Art in Wood last week, I promised myself that I would continue to venture out to new locations in the Philadelphia area. Today, I did just that, discovering yet another hidden gem called The Clay Studio. This time around, instead of going to see a second exhibition, I wanted to try something different. So, I decided to take a look at some of the donated pieces of artwork displayed in the studio. Knowing that there were artists kind enough to donate their work, that alone, piqued my interest in wanting to photograph them. With that in mind, I wanted to share with you guys a few pieces that I found aesthetically pleasing, but also thought-provoking.

As I made my way around The Clay Studio, I came across this first piece created by Jessica Brandl. The moment I glanced at it, I immediately began to reminisce about when I was a little boy, watching Disney fairy tale movies with my family such as Pinocchio, Peter Pan, Bambi, etc. The paintings presented on the vases, tea kettle, and plate reminded me of those movies and even some of the storybooks my parents used to read to me as a child, like, Corduroy, Curious George, The Berenstain Bears, etc. What I liked most about Brandl’s work was how the scenes on her canvases flowed together so flawlessly and almost looked as if they were ready to jump right out at you like a pop-up storybook . Also, the warm and vibrant colors that were chosen for each piece complemented one another very well, giving off a peaceful ambience. In Brandl’s words, "I make work that serves as pointed souvenirs of history and a path to American-ness."

Halfway through my tour, I stumbled across this second piece created by Joshua Paul Herbert. As I observed it closely, all I could imagine were those inkblot cards used in the classic Rorschach tests. As a matter of fact, if you stare at the designs painted on the cups and bowls long enough, they practically put you in a trance, making you want to grab at them. Not to mention, Herbert’s art style appeared to be inspired by Japanese “crockery” of the 1600’s (i.e. cups, bowls, plates, etc. made of earthenware or china), which was what I admired most because of my deep appreciation for Japanese culture.

Towards the end of my tour, I approached this last piece that didn’t have an artist's name attached to it. However, that didn’t matter to me. I acknowledged this work of art for what it was and I absolutely loved it. As an enthusiast of Japanese culture, I think that this piece was Japanese-inspired as well -- this style of painting is particularly known as “Nihonga,” which literally means “Japanese painting.” I couldn’t seem to take my eyes off of those two plates with the black figures painted on them (it looked like a bird and some kind of bug maybe). This unique art style was very fascinating to me.

Now that I’ve finally had the chance to experience The Clay Studio for myself, I can honestly say that it has been an honor. I would definitely recommend visiting this place on your free time. It’s located on 139 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106. And yes, it is FREE to get in! Donations are welcomed! Last but not least, the studio will also be having a special outdoor event on September 18th called Clay Fest, which will take place on 1425 N. American Street, across from the Crane Arts Building. I hope to see you guys there!

This is Keo...I’ll see you all on the next blog!

THE CLAY STUDIO

Website: theclaystudio.org

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