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Brian Rochefort's Ceramic Sculptures at Van Doren Waxter Explore Volcanic and Organic Forms

exhibition · 2026-04-22

From November 3 to December 22, 2017, Brian Rochefort showcased 17 ceramic pieces at Van Doren Waxter in New York City under the title 'Hot Spots.' The exhibition included five wall-mounted 'relief paintings' and twelve 'craters' displayed on pedestals. Rochefort, a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design born in 1985 in Rhode Island, currently resides in Los Angeles. His artistic creations are inspired by volcanic landscapes and tropical rainforests, drawing influence from artists like Peter Voulkos, Ron Nagle, and Ken Price. Among his significant works are Jozani (2017), an 18-inch 'crater' representing volcanic activity, and SETI (2017), which evokes marine life. Relief Painting #4 (2017) features textured surfaces and frames, highlighting vibrant colors and organic intricacies.

Key facts

  • Exhibition dates: November 3 to December 22, 2017
  • Location: Van Doren Waxter at 195 Chrystie Street, New York City
  • Artist: Brian Rochefort, born 1985 in Rhode Island, based in Los Angeles
  • Number of works: 17 ceramic pieces, including 12 'craters' and 5 'relief paintings'
  • Inspiration: Volcanic ranges, tropical rainforests, barrier reefs from travels in Central and South America and Africa
  • Influences: West Coast ceramic tradition of Peter Voulkos, Ron Nagle, and Ken Price
  • Process: Intuitive methods involving breaking clay, dipping in mud, and multiple glaze applications and firings
  • Notable works: Jozani (2017) and SETI (2017), using stoneware, earthenware, glaze, and glass

Entities

Artists

  • Brian Rochefort
  • Peter Voulkos
  • Ron Nagle
  • Ken Price
  • Bram Bogart
  • Jules Olitski

Institutions

  • Van Doren Waxter
  • Rhode Island School of Design
  • SETI

Locations

  • New York City
  • United States
  • Rhode Island
  • Los Angeles
  • Central America
  • South America
  • Africa
  • Tanzania

Sources