Elise Siegel “rough edges”

Studio 10

[Image: Elise Siegel "Portrait Bust with Dark Gray Bodice" (2018) Photo: Alan Wiener]

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Studio10 presents rough edges, a solo show of ceramic sculpture by Elise Siegel. In this exhibition, a large gathering of Siegel’s idiosyncratic and psychologically expressive portrait busts inhabit the gallery.

Although each bust is a distinct individual, they are not portraits of specific persons. Rather, they are embodiments of familiar emotional states — fleeting moments of inner conflict, disquiet, ambivalence and unease. As such, they exude an uncanny sense of vulnerability and project an interiority that creates a psychological tension.

Siegel’s inspiration for this work is wide ranging. In addition to the history of the portrait bust, she is drawn to figurative objects that once functioned in ritual or in daily life. Of particular significance are objects that humans have empowered and animated, such as idols, reliquaries, masks and even toys. Her sculptures take formal cues from the abstracted features of Jomon dogu figures of Neolithic Japan as well as the hollow eyes of terracotta Haniwah sculptures from the 3rd to 6th century A.D., medieval helmets, and African masks.

The essence of her work, however, is a direct result of her engagement with her material. The painterly surfaces and facial expressions of the busts hint at underlying psychological complexities. The results are beautiful and mystifying, creating a potent experience for the viewer.

Elise Siegel lives and works in New York City. Solo exhibitions: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, TX; Nancy Margolis Gallery, NY; Garth Clark Project Space, NY; Third World Ceramics Biennial, Seoul, Korea; Zilkha Gallery, Wesleyan Univ., CT, Jane Hartsook Gallery, NY; Mississippi Museum of Art, Jackson, MS; and Halsey Gallery, College of Charleston, SC. Fellowships: Yaddo, MacDowell Colony, and three NYFA Fellowships. Other awards: Virginia A. Groot Foundation grant and an Anonymous Was a Woman Award. Public Collections: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, TX; Chazen Museum, Madison, WI; and Arario Gallery, Seoul, Korea.