Traces in Time: Reflections on Memory and Identity features a selection of compelling ceramic sculptures by Pancho Jiménez. Jiménez explores the elusiveness of dreams and memory, joining together molded forms in unlikely combinations. Kitsch elements are transformed into mysterious and complex pieces with a rich and relevant focus. The juxtaposition of shapes in his sculptures may at first seem haphazard, but is intentionally crafted to mimic the illusiveness of memory as it advances and recedes over time.
Pancho Jiménez (Santa Clara, CA) is a celebrated artist and arts educator. Mr. Jiménez holds a M.F.A. in Sculptural Ceramics from San Francisco State University, and a B.A. in Studio Art & History from Santa Clara University. He has exhibited professionally since 1996. His work has been shown extensively in the San Francisco Bay Area, internationally and nationally at universities, private galleries and civic spaces. His work is held in permanent collections including the Crocker Museum of Art in Sacramento, CA, the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles, CA, the Triton Museum of Art in Santa Clara, CA, the University of San Francisco and Santa Clara University’s Jesuit Community. Pancho has received several awards for his work. In 2018 he was selected Artist Laureate by Silicon Valley Creates. He has been featured in Ceramics Monthly and numerous publications including, “The Ceramic Design Book”, “Extruded Ceramics” and “500 Ceramic Sculptures.” He currently is a Senior Lecturer at Santa Clara University, where in addition to teaching, he serves as Gallery Director for the Art and Art History Department Gallery and as an Academic Advisor in the Drahmann Advising and Learning Resource Center.
“In my art I attempt to capture that mystery, that ‘eternal presence’ of ancient art forms, which elicit particular emotions in me that may be universal and timeless. Utilizing contemporary imagery mined from commercial ceramic molds, used most commonly in the decorative arts, I recontextualize this imagery to suggest a vocabulary that is both familiar and mysterious. Melding into one another, these images suggest a dreamlike state where in images, experiences and emotions come in and out of focus.” – Pancho Jiménez