Humans first produced fired ceramic objects around 29,000 BCE. Since then, technical knowledge and stylistic influences have gradually spread across the globe. Mixed Doubles pairs the work of twelve contemporary ceramists with historical works from the Everson’s legendary permanent collection. Some artists, like Korean-American artist Steven Young Lee pay tribute to their ancestors, while others, like Betty Woodman, synthesize stylistic elements from multiple cultures to develop their own distinctive visual vocabulary. Mixed Doubles’ pairings range from breezy coincidences and casual similarities to profound cultural influences. Most importantly, the dialogue between these historical and contemporary objects reinforces our shared humanity.
Richard Notkin, Cube Skull Teapot (Variation #6, Yixing Series), 1985. Stoneware, 5 ¼ x 6 x 2 ¾ inches
Everson Museum of Art; Purchase Prize given by the Robert and Dorothy Riester Fund, 27th Ceramic National, 1987, 87.37.7
