Richard Ankrom: Figurines

Detail of Figurines
Richard Ankrom
2012
ceramic found objects, synthetic rubber, zipper
dimensions variable

Combining the imagery of bondage with sentimental kitsch, Richard Ankrom's Figurines convey a dark humor, bringing to mind both the government's attempts to socially sanitize the techniques of torture and the public's tendency to turn a blind eye to documented instances of such. These cutesy ceramic figurines, bunnies and kitties, may be seen simultaneously as both the victims of government-sanctioned violence, made to seem anodyne through propaganda campaigns, and as the submissive citizenry that permits such actions.

In either case, humanity is degraded, treated with cheapness and banality. Yet, Figurines conveys this harsh concept with a touch of the absurd. That's no "terrorist" in a hood, but a sweet little bunny.

Detail of Figurines (2012) by Richard Ankrom

Here's a video showing a few other works and projects by Richard Ankrom:

LAX Art Scene's focus on Richard Ankrom (December, 2008)

It's some interesting work. Figurines is part of the Torrance Art Museum's Baker's Dozen V: Marginal Revolutions. Come on down and check it out. ;-)

Detail of Figurines (2012) by Richard Ankrom

We're looking forward to seeing you at the TAM!!!

Software

Software: 21st Century Ceramics from Lo Angeles

Software is a survey of contemporary ceramics in Los Angeles, featuring the works of Danny First, Mitsuko Ikeno, Nobuhito Nishigawara, Brian Rochefort, and Kim Tucker. It was curated by Jason Ramos. Currently on view in the Torrance Art Museum's Gallery 2, this exhibition will run until May 16, 2013.

Los Angeles has a strong tradition in challenging traditional forms of ceramic art. Such innovators as Peter Voulkos and Ken Price have pushed the "potter's craft" in new directions, but, as time passes, they have themselves become the "traditional" and the standard against which new generations of ceramicists reexamine the aesthetics of clay. It is a long dialectic of practice, seeking to evolve distinct styles of expression.

So, Software is a "snapshot" of five artists, representing both the influences of the past and the attempt to create a unique new vision.

Works by Brian Rochefort (front) and Mitsuko Ikeno (behind)

Here are links to learn more about these artists:
Danny First
Mitsuko Ikeno
Nobuhito Nishigawara
Brian Rochefort
Kim Tucker

Works by Danny First

So, come on by the TAM to check out these works. The exhibit will be running until May 16, 2013. Don't miss out!!!

We're looking forward to seeing you!

Another gallery view of Software at the Torrance Art Museum, curated by Jason Ramos