Fatal Laughs: The Art of Robert Arneson

Robert Arneson revolutionized the medium of clay, transforming it from a “craft” medium into “fine art.” Over a career of more than 40 years--frequently using himself as a subject--he explored ideas for art that were outside the conventional repertory, including those involving physical pain and psychological expression. Moreover, he did not flinch at sensitive topical subjects, including many that were sexual, racial, or political in character. Works in this exhibition include the 1964 Funk object "His and Hers", which irreverently explores sexual and scatological subject matter while also considering the traditional function of ceramics. In three works from the 1970s, "Assassination of a Famous Nut Artist", "Splat", and "Flip and Flop", the artist’s image is a vehicle for anguish and pain. In the latest work from the 1980s, "Global Death and Destruction", Arneson proves that clay is a powerful art medium.

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