Canoa Lab: Artist Profile & Collector's Guide | Trove Gallery

Introduction

In the heart of Valencia, Spain, where the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast whispers tales of ancient civilizations, Canoa Lab emerges as a beacon of artistic innovation and historical reverence. Founded by Pedro Paz and Raquel Vidal in 2016, this artisan studio is a sanctuary where the past and present coalesce into tangible art forms. Collectors are irresistibly drawn to Canoa Lab's creations, not just for their aesthetic allure but for the profound narratives they encapsulate—stories etched into clay and metal, whispering of Iberian, Roman, and Greek legacies.

At Trove Gallery, we are honored to curate the works of Canoa Lab, celebrating their unique synthesis of fine arts training and craft mastery. Their pieces are not mere objects; they are vessels of cultural memory, reimagined through a contemporary lens. What sets Canoa Lab apart is their commitment to slow craftsmanship, using local materials and ancestral techniques to create objects that feel both like ancient artifacts and modern sculptures. This guide invites you to delve into the world of Canoa Lab, where each piece is an investment in art, history, and emotion.

The Artist's Journey

Pedro Paz and Raquel Vidal's journey into the world of ceramics and metalwork is as layered and textured as their creations. Both artists honed their skills at the Polytechnic University of Valencia, where they completed a Master’s Degree in Artistic Production. Their backgrounds in painting, sculpture, photography, video, graphics, and art direction laid a rich foundation for their later work in ceramics and metalwork. This multidisciplinary approach is evident in the way they approach each piece, viewing it not just as a functional object but as a canvas for storytelling.

Key moments in their career development include their decision to focus on ceramics and metalwork, a choice that allowed them to explore the tactile and transformative nature of these materials. Their artistic voice evolved through a deep engagement with Mediterranean ceramic history, drawing inspiration from the playful and surprising forms of "Alfarería de Trampa," a Valencian pottery tradition. This influence is evident in their work, which often features irregular shapes and multiple spouts, challenging the viewer's expectations and inviting interaction.

The duo's influences are as diverse as their training, ranging from the ancient pottery of the Mediterranean to contemporary design movements. They are particularly inspired by the concept of "cartographic drift," mapping time and place through objects that connect past traditions with modern expression. This philosophy is at the heart of their work, guiding their exploration of form, texture, and narrative.

At the core of Canoa Lab's practice is an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and a deep respect for the materials they use. Their studio is described as a laboratory, a space where continuous research into natural materials meets artistic experimentation. This approach is evident in their choice of primary materials—stoneware, metal, and ceramics—each selected for its ability to convey texture, color, and form.

Canoa Lab's signature techniques are rooted in historical forms and ancestral production methods. They prioritize working by hand with minimal tools, allowing the material to guide the creative process. This hands-on approach results in pieces that are imbued with a sense of authenticity and individuality, each one bearing the marks of its making.

The studio setup is designed to facilitate this process, with spaces dedicated to different stages of production, from clay preparation to glazing and firing. The time and care that go into each piece are palpable, with custom glazes made from regional clays and minerals adding depth and variation to the surface. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that each piece is not only visually striking but also tactilely engaging.

For Canoa Lab, craftsmanship is not just a means to an end but a philosophy that informs every aspect of their work. They view their role as makers as one of stewardship, preserving and innovating within traditional frameworks. This balance between tradition and innovation is at the heart of their practice, guiding their exploration of form, texture, and narrative.

Their approach to craftsmanship is characterized by a deep respect for the materials they use and a commitment to slow creation. By using local resources and traditional techniques, they honor the past while pushing the boundaries of contemporary design. This philosophy is evident in their work, which invites collectors to engage with the pieces on multiple levels—visually, tactilely, and emotionally.

Canoa Lab hopes that collectors experience their work as more than just functional objects. Each piece is a narrative object, a vessel of cultural memory that invites reflection and connection. By investing in Canoa Lab's work, collectors are not only acquiring a piece of art but also a piece of history, reimagined through contemporary artistry.

Signature Works

Among the standout pieces in Canoa Lab's collection are those that exemplify their unique blend of historical reference and creative experimentation. The "Isolated" series, for example, features pieces like Isolated 6 and Isolated 11, each with its own distinct silhouette and textured surface. These pieces evoke archaeological artifacts, yet their modern design ensures they complement any contemporary interior.

The "Isolated 11 - Obsidiana" Isolated 11 - Obsidiana is particularly noteworthy for its use of obsidian-like glaze, which adds a striking depth and sheen to the piece. Similarly, the "Isolated 24" Isolated 24 and "Isolated 33" Isolated 33 showcase Canoa Lab's mastery of form and texture, with irregular shapes and surfaces that invite touch and exploration.

The "Pelike Obsidian" Pelike Obsidian and "Lekytho Antracita" Lekytho Antracita are inspired by ancient Mediterranean pottery, yet their modern interpretation ensures they are as much at home in a museum as in a private collection. These pieces are characterized by their elegant forms and rich glazes, which add a sense of depth and movement to the surface.

The "Oinochoe Perla" Oinochoe Perla and "Arq 002" Arq 002 further demonstrate Canoa Lab's ability to blend historical reference with contemporary design. These pieces are not only visually striking but also functional, making them ideal for collectors who appreciate both form and utility.

Collecting Canoa Lab\'s Work

When collecting pieces from Canoa Lab, it is important to look for the hallmarks of their craftsmanship—unique silhouettes, textured surfaces, and custom glazes. Each piece is a testament to their commitment to slow creation and their deep engagement with Mediterranean ceramic history. This attention to detail ensures that their work holds its value, both as an investment and as a piece of art.

Care instructions for Canoa Lab's pieces are straightforward, reflecting their robust construction and durable materials. However, it is recommended to handle them with care, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals. For collectors interested in commissioning or special ordering pieces, Canoa Lab offers the opportunity to collaborate on custom designs, allowing for a truly personalized addition to any collection.

Building a collection of Canoa Lab's work over time allows collectors to appreciate the evolution of their artistic voice and the depth of their engagement with historical forms. Each piece is a narrative object, inviting reflection and connection, making them ideal for collectors who appreciate both form and utility.

The Maker's Legacy

Canoa Lab's contribution to their craft is significant, pushing the boundaries of contemporary design while honoring traditional techniques. Their work is characterized by a deep respect for the materials they use and a commitment to slow creation, ensuring that each piece is a testament to their craftsmanship and artistic vision.

As they continue to explore new directions and evolve their practice, Canoa Lab remains at the forefront of contemporary craft and design. Their work is not only a reflection of their artistic journey but also a contribution to the broader design landscape, inspiring collectors and makers alike.

In conclusion, Canoa Lab's work matters in contemporary design because it bridges the gap between past and present, offering collectors a unique opportunity to engage with art that is both timeless and contemporary. At Trove Gallery, we are proud to showcase their work, inviting collectors to experience the beauty and depth of Canoa Lab's creations.