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Double Happiness.
Casey Chen’s latest series Double Happiness, converses with the exchange of traditional craftsmanship and the whimsy of play and nostalgia. Each piece prominently displays the double happiness symbol, a motif often associated with marriage and joyous occasions. However, Chen’s use of this symbol transcends its conventional connotations, exploring a broader narrative within pop culture. Reminiscent of cheap imported cigarettes and Chinatown kitsch, the symbol becomes an aesthetic cultural reference that resonates with a generation that finds beauty and significance in the mundane and the mass-produced.
The imperial yellow glaze that dominates these works is particularly striking. Historically, this color was reserved for the emperor and his court, symbolizing power, wealth, and exclusivity in ancient China. By integrating this color into his ceramics, Chen bridges the gap between the lofty ideals of historical significance and the playful irreverence of kitsch culture. The bowls, with their intricate designs and bold hues, challenge the viewer to reconsider the value and meaning of cultural symbols in a contemporary context. They remind us that what was once exclusive and elite can now be a part of everyday life, accessible and relatable to all.
Chen’s work is also a testament to the inherent functionality of ceramics. The bowls, with their traditional forms and modern embellishments, are not merely decorative objects but are imbued with a sense of purpose and utility. This duality is a crucial aspect of Chen’s vision, where the boundaries between art and function are deliberately blurred. The bowls, though likely to remain empty in their role as art objects, carry an implicit promise of use and expectation. This notion aligns with the idea that all empty bowls are inherently expectant, waiting to be filled, both physically and metaphorically.
In this series, Chen masterfully weaves together elements of pseudo-historical aesthetics with contemporary pop symbolism. The dragons, floral motifs, and geometric patterns evoke a sense of nostalgia, yet they are presented in a manner that feels fresh and relevant. This juxtaposition creates a dynamic dialogue between the past and the present, urging the viewer to reflect on how cultural narratives evolve over time.
Casey Chen’s ceramics invite us to reconsider our relationship with everyday objects and the cultural symbols they bear. This series of bowls not only pays homage to the rich history of ceramics but also reimagines their place in the modern world, making them relevant and resonant for today’s audience. -
