Sentro Rizal Washington DC is pleased to invite you to a reception to formally open Intersection, the latest solo exhibition of internationally-renowned Filipino stoneware potter Hadrian Mendoza, on Tuesday, 25, June 2019, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, at the Philippine Chancery Annex Building.
This event marks Mendoza’s 29th solo exhibition as he explores themes such as the intersection of cultures, materials, people and lines. Mendoza has lived in the Philippines and in the United States as his works reflect a common ground between both cultures.

Bloom, the main installation in the exhibition is composed of intersecting lines made of dirt and porcelain flowers. A figure pouring a watering can nurtures the growth of the budding flowers. This recreation of the bulol rice terrace god is an installation about the positive impact he has as a teacher tending to his students, which are represented by porcelain flowers. The lines made of dirt that intersect at several points represent cultures, ideas and people crossing paths. After being back and forth between the Philippines and the US, the artist also sees this installation as a map composed of roads that he has travelled.

Hadrian has also created a series of busts and large sculptures of heads. Some have 2 faces, one on each side having different emotions. In one particular piece titled Intersection, a face with orthodontic braces has lines embossed on the top of its head. These intersecting lines represent our thoughts and decisions, all crossing at different points. The emotion on its face shows tension, similar to the tension created by tightening one’s braces.

Dangerous Flower, a series of 12 bulbous forms depict the stages of a flower in bloom. The forms speak of the dichotomy between danger and beauty coexisting in one piece. Tusk-like porcelain protrusions grow from the bulbs in intricate spiral and circular designs. The series represents growth, which is evident in the transformation of the porcelain tusks.

Filipino themes are also explored in this collection with themes that include the Ifugao bulol rice terrace gods of the northern region in the Philippines. The bulol are believed to contain spirits that ensure abundant harvests and protection from natural catastrophe. The Manunggul jar also serves as inspiration for Mendoza. The Manunggul jar is a secondary burial jar that was found in the Tabon caves in Palawan. Mendoza’s interpretation of the jar is represented by a circle on a plinth with the boat and two figures on top. The exhibition also includes functional wares such as Ikebana jars, bowls, and tea sets.