Pacific, by Ken Price

Pacific (2000)

This sculpture, which is 21 inches tall, is reminiscent of a wave. The vibrant colors and unique shape create a piece that reminds me summer and heat but is still very representational of water. Made of synthetic polymer paint on fired clay, the sculpture rests on three orb-like feet and quickly narrows out, which creates a very quick movement into the top of the piece where it folds over and splashes back onto itself. The use of color to contrast the narrative aspect of the piece, and the contrast between the implied texture of the paint and the actual texture of the clay, create a very compelling piece. The fact that it doesn't rest on a base also emphasizes the narrative and the structure of the piece. The shadow that is cast, because of its darkness, creates an implied base, but the massive bulk of the piece at the bottom brings the entire piece together and creates unity.

This sculpture is currently featured in the Museum of Modern Art.