Indiana University Ceramics Guild

IU Ceramics BFA Olivia Trevino and MFA Max Trumpower pushed some big work in the kiln (with all the help from studio mates!)

Introducing first year grad, Max Trumpower!
Bio: Max Trumpower is an artist from the foothills of North Carolina. Trumpower graduated with a BFA Studio Art degree in May 2022 with a concentration in painting from Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. Max is currently a MFA Ceramics Candidate at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana.
Trumpower has completed several short term residencies, including residencies at Red Lodge Clay Center, Watershed Center for Ceramic Arts, Touchstone Center for Craft, Pocosin School of Fine Craft, and Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. Max has apprenticed under artists in North Carolina in addition to numerous assistantships at a variety of craft schools. Trumpower has been the recipient of several grants and awards, including the Maxwell Hanrahan Award to attend a fully funded residency.

Artist Statement: Driven by narrative, my work explores the politics of the ubiquitous and mundane. These objects within everyday encounters spark not just a story, but heed warning of cautionary tales. In my work I am intrigued by the fluid boundaries between Mexican folklore, Southern traditions, and their complex relationship to craft. The vessels within my work provide function, but often incorporate sculptural elements that tell another story of play and consequence. Within my work, figurative elements combine with altar-like structures to create monuments to my past and our collective future.
Welcome Max!