Record details

• generalData.authorNameInListings

  Miquel Barceló (1957)

• generalData.title

  Peixos de brega

• generalData.creationDate

  2019

• technicalData.measurements

  66 x 49 x 47 cm (18 kg)

• technicalData.description

  Ceramics

• technicalData.complementaryDescription

  Barceló perceives ceramics as "a form of painting, a sort of skin—a fresco where form and background seamlessly merge," in his own words. His foray into ceramics began in the 1990s during his time in Mali when an intense and dusty wind did not allow him to paint. Following the locals' advice, he turned to ceramics, and with the assistance of women from the village, he gathered clay and crafted ceramics in a style reminiscent of the Neolithic era.
  
  In 1999, Barceló resumed his ceramist pursuits by partnering with Armelle and Hugo Jakubec at their studio in Durtal, France. Here, he dedicated himself to crafting sizable ceramic pieces with the intention of showcasing them at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris.
  Our perforated ceramic pieces defy convention, even as they reflect a recurring theme in Barceló's artistic repertoire. The vibrant red figures, representing various types of fish, evoke a profound connection to the seascape—a source of inspiration he continually explores, both in his hometown of Mallorca, Asia and Africa. “The vase with red fish comes from Matisse. The fighting fish are Thai. In reality, they are five-centimeter-long colorful fish. Extremely aggressive. They fight to the death. People place bets on one or the other. In the end, one swims, the other does not”. Barceló refers to Siamese fighting fish, known for their warrior instincts, exceptional endurance, and readiness to attack at any moment. These are the primary reasons they are featured in competitions—a sport cherished by Thais since ancient times.