Viola Frey
Oakland Myths Cracked Vase, 1976

Early and important ceramic sculptural work by Frey, 1976. Purchased in 1977 by the Lannan Foundation, Florida. In Frey’s correspondence with the Lannan, the glaze is referred to as Centennial Grey. This work is part of a series that includes “Oakland Myths – Alameda Flea Market,” which is in the collection of the Oakland Museum of California, donated by the Ted and Ruth Nash. Viola Frey was one of those overlooked, strong, and exceptional artists of the 20th century who enriched the repertoire of both women and men artists, vigorously enhancing our understanding of feminist thought in the past century. She was a passionate collector. Along with fine art, china, and books, she collected figurines and knick-knacks found at flea markets, which served as inspiration for her junk sculptures, later called “bricolages.” By curating and producing her own source materials, Frey created a complex personal iconography that would serve as her creative wellspring throughout her artistic career and assist in her exploration of power and gender dynamics. Her oeuvre, although not political, represents an integral part of feminism in the 20th century. Her art consistently refers to herself, her family, and childhood memories.