Introduction
Arlene Shechet
In the first U.S. exhibition of her one-of-a-kind Meissen sculptures, Arlene Shechet exhibits works she produced during her recent artist residency at the world-renowned German porcelain manufacturer. In Meissen Recast, Shechet presents her own Meissen works in two galleries, alongside a number of pieces from the Museum’s collection of Meissen figurines and tableware that date back to the 18th century—connecting the past and present, fine arts and decorative arts.
During her six-month residency in 2012, Shechet gained access to all areas of the porcelain factory—working alongside Meissen artisans, learning their techniques, using their tools, and observing the company’s internal traditions. She made plaster reproductions of original factory molds, which she then assembled to produce a variety of cast, hand-painted porcelain forms; her resulting “molds of molds” merge what is precious and luxurious with the industrial and usually hidden. The work she produced during this time celebrates and subverts the language and craftsmanship of the world’s pre-eminent porcelain manufacturer.
The Selected Object images that follow feature a combined selection of installation views of the exhibition Arlene Shechet: Meissen Recast and archival representations of Meissen objects.
