June Schwarcz: Unconventional Enamels on view at SFO Museum

June Schwarcz (1918–2015), ‘Harlequin Hat Vessel (#2172),’ 2000. Electroformed copper foil, enamel, fire scale. Collection of Forrest L. Merrill. L2023.0601.026. Image courtesy of the SFO Museum
June Schwarcz (1918–2015), ‘Harlequin Hat Vessel (#2172),’ 2000. Electroformed copper foil, enamel, fire scale. Collection of Forrest L. Merrill. L2023.0601.026. Image courtesy of the SFO Museum
June Schwarcz (1918-2015), ‘Harlequin Hat Vessel (#2172),’ 2000. Electroformed copper foil, enamel, fire scale. Collection of Forrest L. Merrill. L2023.0601.026. Image courtesy of the SFO Museum

SAN FRANCISCO – From now until May 5, 2024, the SFO Museum is exhibiting June Schwarcz: Unconventional Enamels, a show of works by the groundbreaking artist. For more than 60 years, Schwarcz (1918-2015) made enameled art that pushed the boundaries of her craft. Inspired by nature and fashion, and also abstract, African and Asian art, Schwarcz developed unique metalworking techniques, always experimenting and embracing complex technical challenges. She initially worked with copper panels and spun-copper bowls, infusing them with her own interpretation of traditional enameling. During the 1960s, Schwarcz pioneered electroforming, an innovative method that involved electroplating pieces made from thin copper foil. She focused on sculptural vessels and when asked about her abstract forms, she explained, “they simply don’t hold water.”

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