Piero Fenci
"Grand Voyage"
Intimate scale, the history of use, the tactile qualities of touching and lifting, and, above all, the interaction of surface and form are central concerns in my work. I have developed a deep attachment to many types of functional objects. They include Etruscan pottery, pre-Columbian architecture, Japanese armor of the Muromachi period, Shaker hatboxes and tinware, traditional origami, and sailboats. Lately my work has focused on my history as a competitive sailor, playing around with the double entendre of making “vessels” that refer to vessels. I take these archetypes, filter them through my psyche, and intuitively connect them. My work, therefore, constitutes loosely rendered reinventions of the past; they are my attempt to build a family tree of spiritual ancestors, a heritage of my own passions.
There are times when I like to describe myself as a dinosaur. I work with my hands and I search for truth and beauty. This form of ceramic art is not the current trend. Today artificial intelligence reaches all areas, including art.
-Piero Fenci
Piero Fenci, world renowned artist and professor from Stephen F. Austin University, is featured in a brand new solo exhibition at the Museum of Biblical Art in Dallas, TX. Grand Voyage is a thoughtful and reflective ceramic installation based upon the artist’s life. Autobiographical in nature his ceramic pieces reveal insights into his very own existence. The artist takes the viewer on a magnificent voyage throughout his inconceivable life, filled with adventures. The ceramic work in this physical and spiritual journey include influences from Pre-Columbian architecture, American Shaker design styles, Etruscan pottery, and Japanese armor and origami.
Fenci brings each person with him on his splendid tour to experience these diverse places of tradition that made him who is today. Curator Dr. Scott Peck: “The Grand Voyage ceramic exhibition divulges and discloses the essence of Artist Piero Fenci, allowing the viewer to see into his very heart and soul.” “My work, therefore, constitutes loosely rendered reinventions of the past; they are my attempt to build a family tree of spiritual ancestors, a heritage of my own passions.” states Fenci. Reinterpreting and reinventing his history, the artist considers his own connections to other ceramic traditions, relating them to various chapters of his lifespan. Come see and experience these new ceramic works of art by this modern master.
Piero Fenci "Grand Voyage" Exhibition
on display
April 21, 2023 – December 19, 2023