By Artist Angel Lopez

From August 23 - September 20, 2008, The Folk Tree presents Latino Ceramists, a cross section of work created by Los Angeles area latino artists in varying stages of their careers, from emerging to nationally recognized.  Themes, techniques and styles vary.  The artists included are: Dora Delarios, Susan Elizalde-Holler, Jim Gonzalez, Alejandra Hernandes, Angel Lopez, Ricky Maldonado, Tomas Owen, Carlos Ramirez, and Vincent Suez.

In her work, Elizalde-Holler has been most influenced by the Cycladic figures and pre-Columbian imagery of Mesoamerica.  She says, "Both are stylized and give only a minimal amount of information or indication of the human form.  There is something of the human element that can be understood in these figures, and at the same time they command a certain amount of attention or reverence."  Emerging talent Alejandra Hernandes also incorporates elements inspired by Meso-American civilizations, including rituals and other religious motifs.

Jim Gonzalez, head of the Ceramics Department at Pasadena City College (PCC), tackles contemporary political issues.  Also affiliated with PCC are Angel Lopez and Carlos Ramirez.  Lopez contributes figurative work, while Ramirez shows pieces from two recent series of wall abstractions.  Says Ramirez of the series

By Artist Ricky Maldonado (photo by Portnip Sangvanich)

You and Me, "I utilize my own crafted plates in conjunction with the broken and discarded pieces of others. In the collection and amalgamation of these parts, I am interested in using unwanted pieces to transcend their original use.  In working with many unknown collaborators, and the always evolving process, I am examining relationships and the way we affect and influence each other." 

Vincent Suez, retired Professor of Ceramics at California State University, Fullerton, who recently had a one-person retrospective at the Muckenthaler Cultural Museum in Fullerton, CA, exhibits work that, in his words, "has its basis in traditional pottery, using drawing and painting to exploit form."  Dora Delarios, who has created ceramics full-time for the last thirty years, exhibits several tiled wall pieces, many of which are ocean themed.  Ricky Maldonado, a multiple award winner known for his geometrically detailed pottery, displays a selection of his coil built, hand burnished, slip decorated and over glazed pieces.  And, Tomas Owen shows one of his wonderfully fleshy dancing nudes along with other figures and face vessels.

The Folk Tree is located near the heart of Old Pasadena at 217 S. Fair Oaks Ave.  Gallery hours are: M-W, 11-6; Th-Sat, 10-6; Sun, 12-5.  For more information, contact Gail Mishkin at 626/793-4828 or The Folk Tree at 626/795-8733.