Michael Schwegmann Champaign, IL, USA SchwegmannStudios.com b.1975 St. Louis, MO, USA 1999 BFA, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, College of Fine + Applied Arts, Champaign, IL, USA
Ball and Chain, 2013. Porcelain, glaze, 9 x 9 x 38".
Michael Schwegmann’s work is a seamless merging of concept, form, surface, and material. His ceramic representations of common objects are layered with careful surface design and meaning. The ceramic materials support or challenge the concept. Most works reference objects relating to labor and hands-on activities. Rather than making purely trompe l’oeil sculptures, these are made to look like memories of objects as though seen through a filter. He alters and combines cultural icons to engage the viewer’s intellect and emotion in unexpected ways. While the ball and chain are not often in use today, they remain a symbol of oppression. They have also come to signify the burden and responsibility of relationships. The surface of this sculpture, glazed as a United States flag, suggests a myriad of ideas about oppression, freedom, and the onus associated with relationships to the USA. The choice of ceramic material also plays a significant role in the statement of this piece. The function of a metal ball and chain relies on its durability and weight. The function of this porcelain sculpture differs entirely from its iron counterpart. The porcelain is fragile and easily broken, so a person remains attached to the weight of the piece only by choice.