REINVENTING TRADITION: 

URIARTE TALAVERA AND CONTEMPORARY MEXICAN CERAMICS

Talavera is a type of majolica earthenware that is fired at extremely high temperatures. Its origins date back to the 7th-Century when the Muslims conquered North Africa and moved into Spain. Majolica evolved to include influences from Chinese, Italian, Moorish and Spanish cultures. When the Spanish introduced talavera to the New Spain, indigenous artisans blended these newly acquired techniques with their traditional clay practice and thus created Mexican talavera pottery.

On this premise, almost 200 years after its foundation, Uriarte Talavera engaged in a very ambitious project to reinterpret itself through new forms of expression. Over 30 renowned contemporary artists gave their personal touch and interpretation of talavera. Uriarte Talavera’s artisans guided the visiting creators through the alchemic process of talavera. The most unpredictable forms and designs were born out of this relationship. Curator Sylvia Navarrete’s leadership, with the firm support and sponsorship of a solid company, gave life to the largest production of contemporary artwork in talavera ever done. This exhibition presents a selection of that ambitious project.

Production: Roberto Campos-Ruiz / The Mexican Cultural Institute of New York
Museography: Leticia Pardo
Installation: Constantin Apostol