Héctor Arce-Espasas: Bread and Circuses

From May 18 to June 22, Taymour Grahne Gallery is presenting a solo exhibition by Brooklyn-based artist Héctor Arce-Espasas. In this new body of work, Hector explores themes of historicity, cultural identity and colonialism in the form of ceramics and paintings.

His ceramics, in the shape of the derriere, represent both literal and figurative styles of decadence. They are sexual in form yet metaphorical in their overflowing fruit contents. Reminiscent of the fruit bowls in 17th century Europe that symbolized wealth and social class, Héctor uses fruit and the body to create a dialogue of indulgence, exoticism and playfulness.

The title of the show, Bread and Circuses, derives from the Romans who gave people free bread and entertainment to create distraction and satisfaction. Héctor appropriates and transforms images inherent to the culture of the Tropics to transgress their current meaning.

Taymour Grahne Gallery is located at 157 Hudson Street.