Potter Hadrian Mendoza opens exhibit in DC

Exhibit guests check out Dangerous Flowers. CONTRIBUTED

WASHINGTON, D.C. – “The show’s title is ‘Intersection’ which is basically an intersection of cultures, of people, of styles, and different ways of working with clay, and I would like to thank you all for being here,” said internationally renowned Filipino stoneware potter Hadrian Mendoza at the debut of his 29th solo exhibition entitled “Intersection.”

The show’s opening reception was held at the Philippine Embassy Chancery Annex in the evening of June 25.

“Intersection is about crossing cultures, and intersecting lives, in which this opening is a good example. A lot of people from the schools I teach, and in the local community, and also from the Filipino community came out to support,” Mendoza also said.

Bloom, the main installation in the exhibition. CONTRIBUTED

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. Mendoza says the installation represents him being the teacher who is nurturing his students represented by the porcelain flowers.

Another installation, Dangerous Flower, a series of 12 bulbous forms depicts the stages of a flower in bloom.

Hadrian Mendoza welcomes guests to his exhibition entitled “Intersection” during its opening reception held at the Philippine Embassy on June 25, 2019. CONTRIBUTED

There are Filipino-themed collections inspired by the Ifugao bulol rice terraces gods from the northern region of the Philippines and the Manunggul Jar, which is a secondary burial jar that was found in the Tabon caves in Palawan, Philippines.

Other installations are a series of busts and large sculptures of heads, and functional wares such as Ikebana jars, bowls, and tea sets.

“When we celebrated Sentro Rizal’s 1st year anniversary earlier this month, we made a vow to expand our efforts in reaching a wider audience, presenting more of the vibrant Filipino culture, and introducing remarkable Filipino and Filipino-American artists to the DMV community,” said Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel G. Romualdez in a statement. “Showcasing the unique talent and artistry of Hadrian Mendoza tonight is a testament to that promise.”

Hadrian Mendoza (right) shares a brief conversation with Philippine Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Patrick A. Chuasoto (left) during the reception. CONTRIBUTED

Intersection is the first cultural event hosted by Sentro Rizal Washington, DC in its 2nd year. The exhibition is located on the 2nd floor of the Philippine Embassy Chancery Annex at 1617 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington DC 20036 and will run until July 25, 2019.

Viewing is by appointment only. You may contact the Embassy’s cultural desk at [email protected] to schedule a visit.