Eric Pardue, an innovative artist from Milton, West Virginia, has masterfully redefined the art of ceramics by integrating vintage imagery into his earthenware creations. These art pieces evoke the essence of collage art, a fitting comparison given their layered complexity. Pardue’s technique involves the intricate use of underglaze, slips, glazes, and decals, each contributing to the formation of a flowing narrative that might weave through past experiences or current musings. The vessels are more than decorative items; they serve as storytellers, blending visual allure with profound personal connections. Pardue’s approach goes beyond aesthetics, aiming to establish a conversation between the piece and its observer, allowing a personal story to unfold uniquely each time.
The allure of Pardue’s work lies in its capacity to blend nostalgia with contemporary artistry, crafting a timeless dialogue on ceramics. Each vessel can be seen as a diary entry, encapsulating traces of daily life through eclectic imagery drawn from everyday interactions. Through the subtleties of his craft, Pardue bridges the gap between art and life, prompting interpretations that depend on individual perception. The medley of images paired with the earthy texture of ceramics results in a tactile and visual symphony that beckons exploration. In this fusion, Pardue offers not just art, but an evolving experience, where the past and present collide and continually redefine the narrative tethered to each piece.
In my current ceramic work, I am combining layers of underglaze, slips, glazes and decals of images that I come into contact with during my daily activities into a narrative. These narratives may refer to a specific current situation, past experience, a specific song lyric, or passages from books. Although the references I make are personal and come from my experiences, I do intend for the viewer to build on my intentions with their own ideas and to develop their own story as they interact with the piece.
Eric Pardue
More info: Instagram (h/t: Blue Spiral, Lustik).
