Ceramics Monthly: Can you briefly discuss your creative background, your inspiration for using tiles in your art, your off-site preparation process, and your methods for selecting and installing your work?
BLACKDOORS: My artistic journey began with a passion for painting, heavily influenced by street art and graffiti. However, I was quickly drawn to ceramic tiles for their potential to create fascinating optical illusions and their durability. Using tile allows me to transform ordinary urban spaces into vibrant and captivating works of art.
CM: In traditional spray paint and wheat paste graffiti, there is an understood impermanence, whereas tile, a conventional architectural/ornamentation material, is meant to stand the test of time. How have you seen your work be embraced or destroyed after installation? How has that shaped future installations?
B: First, I visit the location to take the necessary measurements. Then, I work in my studio, where I create detailed plans and prepare my pieces. My ideas evolve over time while maintaining the concept of black doors. The preparation of my works often begins in the studio, where I design and assemble patterns on small surfaces before scaling them up. I choose my tiles based on their color and texture. Installation requires meticulous planning to ensure the tiles integrate correctly into the chosen location and that the optical illusion is successful.
Unlike traditional graffiti, tiles offer a permanence that is both a challenge and an opportunity. I have been fortunate to see some of my installations well received by the community, becoming local landmarks. However, some pieces can be vandalized or damaged. This partial impermanence has taught me to be flexible and to view each installation as a temporary contribution to the public space. It also encourages me to carefully document each piece to preserve its existence beyond its physical duration.
Working with ceramic tiles has allowed me to redefine how I perceive and interact with public spaces. Each installation is a unique adventure that enriches my artistic journey and gives me a new perspective on everyday places.
We understand your email address is private. You will receive emails and newsletters from Ceramic Arts Network. We will never share your information except as outlined in our privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
You have read of of your complimentary articles for the month.
For unlimited access to Ceramics Monthly premium content, subscribe right now for as low as $4.85/month.
We understand your email address is private. You will receive emails and newsletters from Ceramic Arts Network. We will never share your information except as outlined in our privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Subscribe to Ceramics Monthly
Ceramics Monthly: Can you briefly discuss your creative background, your inspiration for using tiles in your art, your off-site preparation process, and your methods for selecting and installing your work?
BLACKDOORS: My artistic journey began with a passion for painting, heavily influenced by street art and graffiti. However, I was quickly drawn to ceramic tiles for their potential to create fascinating optical illusions and their durability. Using tile allows me to transform ordinary urban spaces into vibrant and captivating works of art.
CM: In traditional spray paint and wheat paste graffiti, there is an understood impermanence, whereas tile, a conventional architectural/ornamentation material, is meant to stand the test of time. How have you seen your work be embraced or destroyed after installation? How has that shaped future installations?
B: First, I visit the location to take the necessary measurements. Then, I work in my studio, where I create detailed plans and prepare my pieces. My ideas evolve over time while maintaining the concept of black doors. The preparation of my works often begins in the studio, where I design and assemble patterns on small surfaces before scaling them up. I choose my tiles based on their color and texture. Installation requires meticulous planning to ensure the tiles integrate correctly into the chosen location and that the optical illusion is successful.
Unlike traditional graffiti, tiles offer a permanence that is both a challenge and an opportunity. I have been fortunate to see some of my installations well received by the community, becoming local landmarks. However, some pieces can be vandalized or damaged. This partial impermanence has taught me to be flexible and to view each installation as a temporary contribution to the public space. It also encourages me to carefully document each piece to preserve its existence beyond its physical duration.
Working with ceramic tiles has allowed me to redefine how I perceive and interact with public spaces. Each installation is a unique adventure that enriches my artistic journey and gives me a new perspective on everyday places.
Unfamiliar with any terms in this article? Browse our glossary of pottery terms!
Click the cover image to return to the Table of Contents