STUDIO MC

Darmstadt based STUDIO MC was founded by Jessica Coates and Michel Müller. Jessica, born in Glen Ridge, NJ, USA, has studied philosophy and literature at Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main and holds a degree (M.A. honors) in fine art and design from the University of Art and Design Offenbach am Main. Michel, born in Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany, is an architect and professor having a doctorate and teaching experimental spacial design at the University of Technology, Arts and Sciences Cologne. Together they develop international projects in the field of art, design and architecture.

With their ceramic objects Studio MC operate small scale work that allows for play and experimentation. Working with clay, one of the most basic and versatile materials enables them a practice that embraces chance and unpredictability. Referencing primary shapes and architectural forms STUDIO MC aims to make the viewer question his expectation of an object. Although it is often stressed that ceramics need to be touched, a matter of particular interest consists of what happens when the eye translates shape and silhouette of an object into something tangible and describable. Something that can be filled with meaning. And further, what happens when grouping objects and vessels. An ongoing inquiry takes place concerning the accompanying connotations that can be had related to the human need to categorize objects. It raises questions as what happens when an object has an assigned category like functional or art work.

STUDIO MC’s objects make use of various techniques. Some pieces are coil built, shaped step by step and developed during making, resulting in organic shapes with an irregular silhouette. Others are rather linear sculptures, planned in advance and carefully assembled from slabs and wheel thrown shapes. This oscillation between two different techniques helps to maintain a state of exploration and highlight different aspects of the universal quality of a vessel. It promotes a deep interest and understanding of shape and fascination with the fact that a slightly different bend of silhouette can change the aura and formal vocabulary of a vessel completely.

For Ark Kollekt 09, Studio MC presents the ‘Veronika’ and the ‘Linea’ vessel made from stoneware clay with a handmade cream white glaze.