FLUX is pleased to present the debut exhibition of ceramics by Tao Tong, a Pasadena-based artist and designer. Cycle features thoughtfully designed wheel-thrown sculptural vessels which have been produced entirely out of discarded and recycled ceramic materials. With unglazed surfaces recalling both stone and detritus, Tong fires his work in either a Kazegama or gas kiln with reduction atmosphere. These choices lead to an experience of unpredictability and a celebration of randomness. Tong’s exploration of form rests in the extremes, with machined-like precision occasionally collapsing or being pulled into organic asymmetry, a result that is often anthropomorphic. The aesthetic is unique and commands a response from the viewer that is subconscious and even emotional. His forms utilize negative space as well as sharp edges and textural details. Informed by his background in design and engineering, a clarity and certainty about his direction comes through in the work. Tong’s pieces have been compared to those of Hans Coper, who shared a background in engineering, and who also preferred to work with the unglazed surface on his sculptural vessels.

Tao Tong was born in Taiwan, lived and studied in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore, and eventually came to the United States at age 21 to begin a career in engineering. The next 2 decades were spent immersed in the world of design, which culminated in the teaching of 3-dimensional design. Since living in Pasadena, Tong discovered a passion for clay and has since devoted most of his time to the development of work in this medium.