MICHAEL KEENE

Artist Statement


I received a BFA in graphic design from the University of Texas and a MA in Visual Art from the University of Northern Colorado.


I have worked as a graphic artist, photographer, jewelry designer, and high school art teacher. I began working in clay in the summer of 2003 and have since remained fascinated with the challenge and versatility of clay as graphic, painting and sculptural medium.


I was born the third of nine children in Montevideo, Uruguay, and spent my early childhood in Sao Paulo, Brazil, before moving to Dallas with my family. The experiences of these early years, and the influence of the images and icons of South American art and architecture, are inherent in the detailed textures and bright colors that appear as part of my ceramic sculpture.


The busts and human figures that are featured on the work often represent archetypes of characters rather than specific portraits of individuals. In some cases they could be considered self-portraits drawn from the subconscious or dream state, in others, just the result of me playing with little clay toys. When there is a narrative in a piece it may not immediately be obvious, even to myself, but may just be a study in contrasts, sarcasm or irony.


Next Zip Show:  May 8 - 24, 2009

Website:  www.mikeeneart.com

Email: keeneart@gmail.com

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