Should sculpture be colorful?

Looking at Art:

We are used to seeing white ancient Greek statures , like the color of the stone. Until recently, archeologists did not realize that these beautiful marble works of art were originally painted with bright colors. Can you picture the Greek marble masterpieces with brightly colored surfaces? Would the addition of color make them more beautiful or detract from their beauty? Bronze sculptures are most often finished with a neutral patina, so color on sculpture is a relatively modern development in our art. Does color enhance three-dimensional work? 

 Work in the Studio:

For many years I completed my sculptures with treatments that would render them in neutrals, white, brown or black. When I started to experiment with different textures on the newest work, the pieces seemed to ask for color. The latest sculpture, shown here, is finished with a prominent textured surface achieved by pressing lace into the leather-hard clay before firing. I had selected this particular lace for the piece because it had a swirling pattern that seemed to go with the curves in the sculpture. I allowed those lacy swirls to guide me when I applied the acrylic patina. It appears to me that the coloration brings out the curving forms within the piece. What do you think? 

Drama Queen, two views, Ceramic Sculpture, 12” x 12” x 7”

Betty Gerich, Artist, Painter and Sculptor

My studio work consists of sculpture inspired by the figure, paintings of people and drawings from a live model. Three college degrees trained me as an artist and a teacher. My background includes eleven solo exhibitions and my art has received numerous awards. Connecting with other artists and sharing ideas about the work is an ongoing passion.

https://www.bettygerich.com
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