I really like the stark nature of these porcelain figures.
Canadian souvenirs often reflect nature in a gimmicky way, with overtones of cuteness. This series of porcelain figurines tells the story differently. Familiar souvenirs from Blue Mountain Pottery and Huronia are stripped of colour and their forms altered, casting light on a more realistic and often depressing narrative of place: Eskimos are seen to melt and disappear into a puddle as the Canadian artic is warming, and Polar Bears are sinking into oblivion.
Despite the serious overtones, these pieces have a humor and beauty, which makes them highly desirable.
[posted by kris]
