Cora Olson's ceramic works stand out for their bold exploration of form, function, and symbolism.
Cora Olson is a contemporary ceramic artist known for her innovative approach to form and texture. Her works often explore themes of protection, boundary, and isolation, pushing the limits of traditional ceramics to create pieces that are both thought-provoking and visually striking.
Through her pieces "Deny," "Boxed," and "Keep Out," Olson crafts not just functional objects but also profound artistic statements that challenge and engage the viewer. Each work is a unique blend of aesthetic appeal and conceptual depth, showcasing Olson's ability to manipulate traditional ceramic techniques into contemporary expressions.
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Deny (2023):
Deny, Cora Olson, 2023, ceramic, 9.5 x 7 x 7 in. / 24.13 x 17.78 x 17.78 cm.
"Deny" is a captivating piece that features an unusual, spiky base supporting a rough, seemingly unrefined bowl. This work plays with the idea of accessibility and defense, using pointed forms that could signify a denial of entry or a protective barrier. The choice of dark, muted tones complements the form, enhancing the piece's enigmatic quality and inviting viewers to ponder its deeper meanings.
Boxed (2024):
Boxed, Cora Olson, 2024, ceramic, 16 x 16 x 16 in. / 40.64 x 40.64 x 40.64 cm.
"Boxed" is a striking example of Olson's creative use of geometry and space. This ceramic piece, composed of multiple juxtaposed squares, creates a visually intriguing interplay of shadows and forms. It challenges traditional perceptions of ceramic art as merely functional and moves it into a realm where form disrupts function, symbolizing perhaps constraints or confinement.
Keep Out (2023):
Keep Out, Cora Olson, 2023, ceramics, 14 x 7.5 x 7.5 in. / 35.56 x 19.05 x 19.05 cm.
In "Keep Out," Olson continues her exploration of boundaries and barriers. This piece, with its robust, spherical form resting on spiky supports, communicates a clear message of exclusion and defense. The contrasting smooth surface of the sphere against the aggressive texture of the spikes evokes a sense of guarded vulnerability, making it both a protective artifact and a provocative artistic statement.
Cora Olson’s ceramic works are compelling for their conceptual richness and masterful craftsmanship. Each piece serves as a functional object while simultaneously challenging the viewer to decode its deeper meanings related to protection, denial, and boundary. Olson’s work stands as a testament to the power of contemporary ceramic art to transcend traditional boundaries and engage with viewers on both aesthetic and intellectual levels.
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Desires, Cora Olson, 2024, ceramics, 17.25 x 10.5 x 10.5 in. / 43.8 x 26.6 x 26.6 cm.
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