Exhibition Dates: November 15 – December 6, 2014
Modern Eden Gallery is thrilled to announce Homebodies: Recollective, a solo exhibition by gallery artist Calvin Ma. In this new series of meticulously crafted ceramic sculptures, Ma continues to expound upon his Homebodies theme. Using wood-like texture and action figure anatomy, his forms are part house, part hero. Recollective presents his iconic characters in vehicles of transportation referencing pop culture and childhood nostalgia. The figures are protective, yet guarded, and through the delicate ceramic medium, represent a playful contrast of strength and fragility.
“My work draws inspiration from the toys and action figures I had growing up. As an introverted and socially awkward kid, the plastic heroes, villains and their vehicles helped me cope with my inability to socialize. They served as an escape for me and soon became a passion. Now, as an introverted and socially awkward adult/artist, I create artwork that reflects on the struggles I have with social anxiety. Those toys have become a visual reference in my work and in a way, still help me cope. Homebodies: Recollective is a continuation of the series I’ve been working on, but incorporates pop culture related vehicles. Movies and cartoons were also welcome distractions growing up, so I thought it would be interesting to pair more recognizable elements with my work.” ~Calvin Ma
Calvin Ma is a ceramic sculptor born and raised in San Francisco, California. He received his BA in Industrial Arts from San Francisco State University and MFA in sculpture from the Academy of Art University. His art has been awarded accolades across the country including The Artery Award (2014), 1st Place at the ACGA National Clay & Glass Exhibition (2013), Best of Show at 2nd Annual Workhouse Clay National (2012), and Best in Show MFA at Academy of Art University, Spring Show (2011). His works have been published in 500 Figures in Clay volume 2, 2014, (New York, NY) and GEEK-ART Une Anthologie(Paris, France). His pieces are in various public and private collections, including the Crocker Art Museum.
The exhibition will be on display through December 6, 2014 and is free and open to the public.