Design Miami 2023: J. Lohmann Gallery presents Vases
J. Lohmann Gallery presents Vases: Sandra Davolio, Toni De Jesus, Jongjin Park. Each of these designers build unique artworks that defy and subvert the functional form of a vase and the precious medium of porcelain. The three artists’ unique approach to the classic vessel are grounded in beauty, wonder, and whimsy. Sandra Davolio’s sophisticated designs, Toni De Jesus’ floral vases, and Jongjin Park’s innovative artistic methods have completely reshaped how the signature porcelain vase is conceptualized.
The "he loves me… he loves me not" collection, presented by Toni De Jesus and represented by J. Lohmann Gallery at Design Miami, is centred around the piece "Amor Perfeito (2022)." Originally conceived as a response to a porcelain plate from Nantgarw China Works, part of Glynn Vivian Art Gallery's collection, it was featured in the exhibition "On Your Face Collective x Glynn Vivian: Queer Reflections." The creation of "Amor-Perfeito" also marked a profoundly personal moment, as it provided Toni with the opportunity to come out to his father.
“He loves me… he loves me not” delves deeply into the significance of specific flowers and their personal relevance to Toni. It explores the relationships he has with particular people through these flowers and the simple meanings these might represent. Orchids, Daffodils, and Ox-eye Daisies (the inspiration for the collection's title, "Bem-me-quer… malmequer") are among the flowers Toni explores, scrutinizing their meanings and representations through the intriguing practice of floriography.
Toni ventured into an examination of how different polygons emerge from the circular shape of his catalyst piece when it is divided into equal parts. He is fascinated by the juxtaposition within the work and, specifically, how dividing the circle results in a more angular and "man-made" shape, in contrast to the natural theme of the flowers. This exploration is further enhanced by capturing these flowers through digital records and printing them using ceramic decals. The creation process of this work is divided into distinct phases. Toni employs porcelain to handcraft the various shapes, utilizing the coiling technique, which grants precise control with the assistance of a heat gun to shape the vessels either organically or angularly. Once the work is built, it undergoes a gradual drying process under cover to minimize the risk of breakage. After reaching a bone-dry state, the work is bisque-fired to 1000°C, followed by the application of a layer of glaze and a stoneware firing process at 1280°C. The white pieces are then prepared for the application of decals. A careful selection of imagery of flowers from the artists walks to parks and gardens or imagery from books or the internet is assembled to create a digital decal transfer. Once these transfers are printed, they are carefully applied to the glossy surface. The work is then fired at a slightly lower temperature of 800°C to ensure the decals adhere to the porcelain. A final touch involves delicately applying small accents of gold lustre to highlight intricate details. The work undergoes a firing at 720°C when is then finalised.
Toni De Jesus aims to present a captivating fusion of artistic expression and cultural symbolism, bridging personal connections and shared heritage through the medium of ceramics. The exploration of flowers and their meanings, along with the incorporation of language and symbols, forms a captivating narrative that resonates with viewers and deepens their appreciation for the craftsmanship and storytelling within each ceramic piece and collection.
