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Access Institute Newsletter

American Art Collector

 

Jose Antonio Torres

I have a fascination with teapots, and love the idea that this man-made vessel has an immense importance to various cultures for its ceremonial purposes yet it can be treasured and enjoyed by a child engaged in a magical, make-believe tea party. I enjoy the idea of transforming a classic, traditional vessel such as the teapot into artwork. The thought that my teapots can make a statement by causing a dramatic gesture in someone's home brings great pleasure. I'm very much inspired by lines, geometric shapes, and the continuous movement of the eye. I often focus on a particular shape, which becomes a reoccurring theme or subject throughout my work, and feel that the negative space around the piece is just as important as the overall shape.

Ironically the words foot, belly, shoulder, neck, and lip are used to describe parts of a ceramic wheel thrown vessel. I like to toy with the idea of the vessel as a symbol for the human individual. The lid serves as a safety feature to protect one from having others take a peek inside.