Cody Kroll - Sculpture / Ceramics

Cody Kroll

My focus, as an artist, is to view the body as a “vessel”. Where in this vessel does the “self” reside? How does this mortal flesh truly define us? Who are we? Why are we here? What does it mean to be a human being? Form and concept as art historical terms are constructs of modernity. In its origins visual art, like craft, had a functional element. Its function was spiritual in nature. Works of art were meant to evoke in the viewer awe, adoration, reverence, even fear. My work harkens back to these primal influences. I do not limit myself to any one medium, material or style in my artistic process. This provides me the freedom to let the concept inform the juxtaposition of materials and forms. In the last few years I have become fascinated, conceptually, by the "living" nature of clay and themes of impermanence. By necessity, I have had to acquire a firm foundation in all things ceramic from clay body compositions to glazing and firing.
My current work has been heavily influenced by my experimentation with 16th century Japanese and modern American shino glazes on various clay bodies to create sculptures, mixed-media installations and functional ceramics. My intent is to create spiritual spaces, objects and artifacts meant to confront, cajole, seduce and assault my viewer’s senses and sensibilities. I am a creator, a shaman, a pilgrim, an artist. I am a sculptor and a maker. I am right here, right now.

News

2012

Kuma gama: teaware & sculpture by Cody Kroll
April 06, 2012 - April 28, 2012

Location & Reception:

Opening Party: Friday 04/06/12, 5-9pm.

Crocus Clay Works

Door 2, Studio #225, Hungerford Bldg.
1115 East Main St. (at N. Goodman)
Rochester, NY 14609
(585) 414-5643

Flux Annual : Hungerford Urban Artisans Group Exhibition

March 02, 2012 - March 19, 2012

- Spirit Guide III: Terra-cotta and mixed media installation (8' x 4' x 3') Cody Kroll - 2011

Location & Reception:

Door 2, Studio #225, Hungerford Bldg.
1115 East Main St. (at N. Goodman)
Rochester, NY 14609

2011

History in the Making VI

September 16, 2011 - October 29, 2011

The History in the Making exhibit showcases contemporary ceramic work from all across the country. Juried by Bill Stewart, SUNY Brockport Professor Emeritus, this show attracts the top ceramicists in the field.

- Manifest Destiny: Press-molded stone-ware & 8 Shinos (6' x 4') Cody Kroll - 2011

Location & Reception:

Firehouse Gallery at Genesee Pottery, 713 Monroe Ave. Rochester, NY 14607 - 585.271.5183

Friday, September 16, 2011 from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Dia de Los Muertos

October 28, 2011 - November 29, 2011

An honoring of the dead with altars created using objects such as photographs, food, drink and personal effects that were of importance to the deceased. Individual artists from across the country have designed altars that are on display at the gallery.

- Canticum Acheta: "Cidada's Song" - Mixed-media (14" x 14" x 20" ) Cody Kroll - 2011

Location & Reception:

El Museo: 91 Allen Street, Buffalo, NY 14202 - 716.884.9362

Friday, October 28, 2011 from 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Resident Faculty Exhibition

August 26, 2011 - October 29, 2011

An exhibition of artwork by resident faculty members of the University of Rochester Memorial Art Gallery's Creative Workshop.

- Eye for an eye...tooth for a tooth... - Mixed-media (14" x 14" x 20" ) Cody Kroll - 2011

Location:

The Memorial Art Gallery's Creative Workshop: 500 University Ave., Buffalo, NY 14607 - 585.276.8900