A damned good cup
R. Diamantopoulos, “Blushing Ladies,” soda-fired translucent porcelain, 2002.
This month, Exploding Head Gallery, at 924 12th Street, is exhibiting a juried ceramic show titled Affinity for the Cup. But it really isn’t as mundane as that. From idea to opening, it proves to be a well-thought-out, well-executed and, overall, dynamic visual and tactile treat. The nationwide competition started with the gallery taking ads out in magazines and sending information to universities. The slides came piling in. The juror, Richard Hotchkiss, came along with a sort of swift precision and selected 52 artists from 25 states. What really makes this show strong is its focus: a cup. Make a cup. The end product is a wonderful display of individuality and pure expression that could’ve only taken place within such strict guidelines of a simple and traditional form. It’s even hard to argue with the awards; the best overall cup is, well, a damned good cup. The show runs through March 1.
