SHIO KUSAKA

David Zwirner is pleased to present its second exhibition with Shio Kusaka (b. 1972, Japan) which also marks the reopening of the gallery’s newly renovated Paris location.

Known for her playful and instinctive approach to the medium of ceramics, Kusaka makes vessels that embrace organic imperfections, recurrent techniques and patterns, and imagery that alludes to historical, contemporary, and futuristic forms. The artist’s complex designs highlight poetic irregularities and optical qualities. Kusaka’s work is inspired by a wide range of references: personal observations, textures, patterns, architecture, fantasy, and outer space, among others.

In the artist’s Paris presentation—her first in the city—Kusaka places new forms across a pedestal spanning the length of the gallery reflecting her desire to return to a more intimate scale of making and experiencing, inviting audiences to closely observe the meticulous details applied to her forms. Kusaka also delves into familiar motifs and techniques – including her signature method of carving, which often steers her use of glazes and approach to firing.