My work blends my interest in human psychology, community and love for decoration and embellishment. I love to see people smile and the stories I build make that possible. I enjoy the art in folk and craft objects. I use traditional and iconic imagery and forms to make my work feel familiar. Through the narratives I choose, I bring whimsical, serious and approachable aspects into the objects. I realize that even when the content is heavy it can still be made accessible. This accessibility manifests itself through humor, decoration and homage to historical traditions. I love decoration! I enjoy how heavy decoration can seem parasitic, yet it beckons to be adored and looked at. Decoration adds a layer of stimulation to an object. Its intended to give pleasure. The more intently you look, the more rewarding it will be. Community is a strong force that influences my artwork and life. I value the communities that I have formed and am continuing to expand on. My artwork aims to bring people closer and act as markers for people to congregate around. Larger pieces are a community experience because they quickly evolve into a project of lifting, moving, loading, cursing and celebrating because of the assistance I require to create them. Friends are important, and a strong community is key.
Bio
Born and raised in the border city of El Paso, TX, George Rodriguez creates decorative ceramic sculpture addressing his identity and community. Brought up by his mother and four older sisters, George quietly observed the love and hard work needed to maintain his family and community. His art began to manifest as search for his individualized voice. The first in his family to finish college, he received a BFA in ceramics from the University of Texas El Paso then went on to receive an MFA from the University of Washington. His world curiosity grew as a recipient of a Bonderman Travel Fellowship where he traveled the world through most of 2010. This travel continues to have a profound impact on George and has helped his community grow. George was recognized as an Emerging Artist in 2019 by the National Council on the Education of Ceramic Arts (NCECA) and the Museums of Northwest Art awarded him The Patti Warashina Luminary Award in 2017. His work can be found in the permanent collection of the National Mexican Museum of Art in Chicago and the Hallie Ford Museum in Salem, OR.
