Brad Schwieger "Cut Constructions" Architectural Vessels" - Artifacts - March 24, 2004 - 3 1/2 stars

The NCECA Convention's presence in the city has, without question, beautified the place. With these high-quality ceramics exhibitions happening all at once at so many venues around town, it was difficult not to get a healthy dose of good art last weekend, no matter which way you turned. Schwieger's (Ohio University Ceramic chair) skewed architectural ceramic sculptures, displayed in the window of Artifacts, were absolutely intriguing. Disassembled and reconstructed built forms possessed flatness and contrasting volume, giving them a kinetic, wobbly feeling. Symmetry in his column pieces (like architectural balustrades) was moderately distorted, creating a visual sensation of melting. This vapor, soda fired treatment only enhanced the animation, the movement of the forms. Through April 10, 2004; 317-255-1178. -Mary Lee Pappas