Ritual Vessel, c. 2000

Robert Winokur

stoneware, glaze

18.25" H x 12.5" W x 8" D

This glazed stoneware piece is from Robert Winokur's "Ritual Vessel" series, which draws from mysticism or magic, improbability, spontaneity, and emotion. The form is not perfectly symmetrical, opting instead for more organic shapes and surfaces, evidence of the artist's emphasis on process over subject matter. The color palette is subdued, with earthy tones that range from a dark hunter's green to a mustard yellow. Winokur drew inspiration from Abstract Expressionists such as Paul Klee and Willem de Kooning, whose influences can be felt in the irregular glaze work and fantastical shapes. Beginning with a round, drum-like base, the vessel stretches into a long neck with two dark blue wings on either side.

Artist Biography

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Robert Winokur (1933-2020) received his BFA from the Tyler School of Art at Temple University and his MFA from New York State College of Ceramics. In 1966, Winkour returned to Tyler, this time as professor of ceramics, and also department chair from 1988-1991. He retired in 2005 as professor emeritus.
Winokur's practice evolved over the years, with stylized house forms being a recurrent subject. He considered their physical and metaphorical space as vessels themselves. His life-long commitment to the vessel as both a functional and communicative form resulted in a body of work that evokes powerful emotions while retaining a sense of familiarity and comfort.
Robert and his wife Paula maintained a shared ceramics studio for more than 50 years-half being the porcelain or "light" side and the other the stoneware or "dark" side, according to Paula in a 2013 interview produced by the James A. Michener Art Museum. Their working relationship was a testament to shared creativity and support.

Donated by Tracy Levesque

• All winning bids are paid in full before artwork leaves The Clay Studio. Winning Bids are automatically billed at the close of the Auction at 10:30 pm.
• Shipping is NOT included in the winning bid.
• Items can be packed and shipped, and the winner will pay the cost.
• Items can be picked up at The Clay Studio for no additional cost.
• Items with alcohol CANNOT be shipped.