It is difficult to know where to begin in writing about Grayson Perry. He is such a complex and multi faceted artist, for one, ceramic is only a part of what he does, though it does seems to be his primary medium. But also that his work can not be discussed with out discussing him as well. Aside from being a transvestite he is the only ceramist to have won the Turner Prize ( 2003). Here he is above dressed as “an Italian mother of the bride” receiving a CSM from Prince Charles. This is a rather conservative outfit for Mr. Perry, his typical preference is super feminine and incredibly decorative
This style reflects the look of his work. First and most importantly for me is that they are for the most part pots, like his clothes, are well made and heavily decorated.
There are typically layers of images and text that revolve around a theme, often sex, contemporary culture and class as they relate to himself and his life as a transvestite.
On the surface he doesn’t really fit the criteria I set down in the beginning of the blog, but looking deeper, or even better, doing a google search for Grayson Perry, brings an avalanche of images, lectures, websites and articles. Not just in art journals either but many from English newspapers. Grayson Perry owns himself, his name and his images in a way that a digital media marketer can only envy. I would attribute much of this to his collaboration with British culture, and understanding the roll of the artist in relation to his culture. Sadly I can’t find a way to watch this series of television shows starring Perry, but here is the trailer to give you a feel for the depth of his influence.
He thinks deeply and is well spoken and there are many interviews and lectures that feature Perry, but I chose these 3. They are parts of a great long lecture he gave for Central Saint Martins. He gives wonderful explanation for his work and his influences. The first section features a brief stop motion video of his making process that give great insight into the importance of craft in his making.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YefKf8To9Po
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFWmmdare6M
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRAa-v9eXOk