University of Iowa Iowa Research Online Theses and Dissertations Spring 2017 Industries/ influence ceramics Man Ho Cho University of Iowa Copyright 2017 Man Ho Cho This thesis is available at Iowa Research Online: https://ir.uiowa.edu/etd/5440 Recommended Citation Cho, Man Ho. "Industries/ influence ceramics." MFA (Master of Fine Arts) thesis, University of Iowa, 2017. https://ir.uiowa.edu/etd/5440. Follow this and additional works at: https://ir.uiowa.edu/etd Part of the Art Practice Commons
Industries/ Influence Ceramics by Man Ho Cho A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Fine Arts degree in Art in the Graduate College of The University of Iowa May 2017 Thesis Supervisor: Professor Steve McGuire Assistant Professor Andrew Casto
Copyright by Man Ho Cho 2017 All Rights Reserved
Graduate College The University of Iowa Iowa City, Iowa CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL This is to certify that the Master's thesis of MASTER'S THESIS Man Ho Cho has been approved by the Examining Committee for the thesis requirement for the Master of Fine Arts degree in Art at the May 2017 graduation. Thesis Committee: Steve McGuire, Thesis Supervisor Andrew Casto, Thesis Supervisor Kee-ho Yuen Anita Jung Hannah Givler
ABSTRACT Cultivating the spatial relationship in between utility and sculpture generates my process. I deconstruct, reconstruct and assemble objects; bringing to them a new perspective that simplifies the structure while enhancing the surface and the unassuming nature of the forms. Developing vessels for drinking or pouring serves as the foundation for my study of materials, architectural foundations and elements of utilitarian objects. The functional purpose of the objects becomes minimized due to the structure beneath the surface and the constructed role of the base blurring distinctions between function and form. ii
PUBLIC ABSTRACT The work I make revolves around utilitarian and sculptural objects that feed off one another. I develop vessels for drinking or pouring, which serve as a foundation for my study of materials, architectural foundations and elements in utilitarian objects. In the process of generating my work, my primary focus is to enhance my forms, surface and the simplicity of the objects. I deconstruct, reconstruct and assemble objects, bringing to them a new perspective that simplifies its structure. The functional purpose of the objects becomes simplified due to the structure beneath the surface. Exemplifying the base allows the object to cultivate a spatial relationship in between utility and sculpture. iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF FIGURES...... V Chapter I. INTRODUCTION... 1 II. PHILOSOPHY... 2 III. CONCLUSION... 10 iv
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Industries/ Influence Ceramics CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION The work I make today is the product of years of investigation and exploration in the studio. Ceramics as an emphasis of study requires long hours of mental and laborintensive commitment. I have adopted a diligent studio practice from different respected professors, and others I have met along the way. Working alongside these artists has shaped and made me whom I am today. 1
CHAPTER II PHILOSOPHY In today s world, we are surrounded by an endless history of objects. Nothing we make is original anymore. When we look at an arrangement of objects, they are designed and assembled to work together to create a dialogue between the objects themselves. We all have a unique and different way of understanding what we see. Therefore, the way we interpret things can be completely different. I m interested in changing others perceptions of looking at objects, based on my unique perspective. This has become my framework for observing and investigating how objects are related. Therefore, relationships between different materials and objects might raise a question or idea, and this inspires and motivates me to create. I use many different materials such as metal, wood, clay, and plastic to achieve what the work needs to communicate effectively to my audience. However, my primary medium is clay; clay is a flexible material and stretches options in surface and form as well as other materials. Fundamentally, my approach to objects is concerned with simplicity of the forms and surface, they come together in a way to create a sense of interaction. I want the work to be open to interpretation, to give space for the viewer to come to his/her own conclusion. 2
My work revolves around an investigation between utilitarian and sculptural objects that feed off one another; I try to create tension and contrast between the materials within my artwork. These ideas serve as a foundation for my study of materials, architectural foundations and elements within the objects. This approach to making is also inspired by my interest in modern architecture and design. The emphasis in modern architecture and design has been to transform raw materials to show the beauty of those materials 3
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CHAPTER III CONCLUSION You can t go wrong when you express self-awareness and gratitude. 10