Postmodern Standpoint

Keith William’s “Figure Ground Teapots” are currently on display at the Concordia University Art Gallery. These pieces of art are reminiscent of ancient pottery because of their simple design and rich color. However, the thing that separates these pieces of art from ancient pottery is the exaggeration of their porportions. They are both tall, thin, teapots that seem to be slightly twisted out of proportion. They almost look like they are melting. This design reminds me of the work of a postmodern artist mentioned in our book named Sherrie Levine. She took works of art that were already created by other artists and added her own spin to them. The pots that I viewed seemed as if they followed that same design. They could be ancient pottery but there are details on them that are too new. Keith William’s may have borrowed techniques from early potters but it is clear that he has added his own style to them.