The Vocabulary of Vessels
"Two Cocks Kissing Bowls", Jason Bige Burnett, ceramic, 4.5x5.5in, 2017.
Jason Bige Burnett is fascinated with the vocabulary of vessels and how the narratives of our lives illustrate living spaces and reflect daily routines: “Coffee stained cups in the cupboards, hanging plates embellishing the walls, and teapots that remain untouched in glass cabinets, are all artifacts of our own existence. Stains, cracks, and pristine, luster-adorned objects are stories I believe to be worth telling.” As a result, he achieves to create thoughtfully unrefined vessels that celebrate vulnerability and beauty.
Burnett's investigations start with recollections from growing up in a “broken” family. During that time sanctuary was found in cartoons such as the Nickelodeon channel’s Ren and Stimpy, Rugrats and Ahhh! Real Monsters. Revisiting them as an adult enabled him to appreciate how they used bright colors and patterned wallpaper to excite the domestic interiors of their characters’ homes. Since then he has introduced similar elements in his pottery to promote “youthful discovery”.
"Salt and Pepper Shakers, Jason Bige Burnett, ceramic,3.75x2in each, 2017
The adult whimsy of Ren and Stimpy is particularly reflected in the double entendre of “Two Cocks Kissing” bowls, and “Kissed By Queens” cocktail cups. The bright colors and playful design are a cue to have fun with the work, the artist’s intentions being to create pottery and beautiful objects that reflect life’s escapades and serve as a bridge between the real and surreal.
Burnett has an upcoming show and six-week residency at Belger Arts Center in Kansas City Missouri. He just launched a new website and online store called Mr. Benny's Pot Shop.
Immediately following that is the first Southern Crossings Pottery Festival (SXPF), which he is coordinating with Amy Chase and Steven Cheek. SXPF will take place March 2 & 3, 2018 at Copper & Kings in the Butchertown neighborhood of Louisvile. The event will showcase potters in the Ohio River Region, including Lexington, Cincinnati, and more. The festival will also include the Empty Bowls Benefit Dinner @PLAY Louisville on March 3, 2018.
Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky
Education: BFA, Studio Art ceramics, printmaking and graphic design, Western Kentucky University; Penland School of Crafts (NC) for 2 years as a core fellowship student; 2012-2013 Artist-In-Residence at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts (TN).
Website: mrbennyspotshop.com
Instagram: @mrbennyspotshop
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"Kissed by Queens cocktail cups" by Jason Bige Burnett, ceramic, 3.25x3.5in, 2017
"Fancy Feast set" by Jason Bige Burnett, ceramic, variety sizes available, 2017
"Doughnuts and Daddy plate" by Jason Bige Burnett, ceramic, 7x7x1in, 2017
Written by Keith Waits. Entire contents copyright © 2017 Louisville Visual Art. All rights reserved.
