Twin Rockers 2007

Arlene Shechet made these 'Twin Rockers' out of glazed ceramic; they almost seem to bubble and flow upwards like something organic. It's like Shechet is letting the material itself take the lead, embracing the unexpected forms that emerge through the making process. The surface is so tactile, you can almost feel the artist's hands shaping the clay, pushing and pulling it into these bulbous forms. The glaze is thick and glossy, catching the light in a way that emphasizes the texture of the ceramic. Look closely, and you'll notice how the color pools in some areas, creating these gorgeous, shimmering effects. There’s a sense of playfulness, but also a raw, uninhibited energy. Shechet reminds me of Lynda Benglis who also played with the materiality of sculpture. Both invite us to appreciate the inherent beauty of the materials. Ultimately, Shechet seems to suggest that art is less about control and more about embracing the unexpected.