Léopold L. Foulem

Canadian, b. 1945

Famille Verte Flower Vase with Bouquet of Forget-Me-Nots, 2001–2002

ceramic, found objects

27.5 x 25 cm

Collection of the Winnipeg Art Gallery; Acquired with funds from the Canada Council for the Arts Acquisition Assistance program/Oeuvre achetée avec l'aide du programme d'aide aux acquisitions du Conseil des Arts du Canada and with funds from the Estate of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Naylor, funds administered through The Winnipeg Foundation

2004-2

Categories:

Ceramic, Studio

Léopold Foulem’s practice is conceptually based, emphasizing ideas over process. Clever and intellectually rigorous, Foulem’s work is fully cognizant of previous ceramic traditions. The decoration and title of Famille Verte Flower Vase with Bouquet of Forget-Me-Nots alludes to the much celebrated traditions of Chinese porcelain. Foulem, however, achieves his ornamentation through inexpensive hobby store glazes and cheap commercial decals. The loaded connotations of high culture, communicated through the decoration, contrasted with the lowbrow commerciality of the material, allows the artist to comment on high art versus kitsch. One of Canada’s leading ceramists, Foulem has won both the Jean A. Chalmers National Crafts Award and the Saidye Bronfman Award for Excellence in Fine Craft.