Alejandro Frieri

Broze, Valids

Ceramicist

©Alejandro Frieri

Forces of the universe

Alejandro creates sculptures exploring the laws of physics
As well as ceramics, his work sometimes includes metal such as gold leaf
His creations have been exhibited in Argentina, Spain, Japan and the USA

Alejandro Frieri’s ceramic structures capture the observer in a mind-bending journey through curves that seem to defy conventional physics. With architectural precision and sculptural fluidity, he transmutes clay into entangled forms resembling dazzling versions of a Mobius Strip. Born in a family of music and craft lovers from Cartagena, Alejandro harboured a latent passion for sculpture, yet initially pursued a path in architecture. He graduated from Universidad Pontificia Javeriana, Bogotá in 2000 and specialised in the design of innovative processes at the Catholic University of Córdoba, Argentina. He worked with industrial design furniture firms where ergonomics and aesthetics also moulded his special perception, until he eventually embraced sculpture as his true calling.

Interview

©Alejandro Frieri

©Alejandro Frieri

When did you first consider the idea of becoming a sculptor?: It was during a gap semester before university that I stumbled upon wood carving in my mother's marquetry shop, igniting a fervent desire to pursue sculpture professionally. Despite family pressures to prioritise economic stability and choose a different career, I struggled for years with the feeling that I was an artist at heart and not an architect.
When was the real turning point for you?: It was a sequence of connections and doors that opened. Upon returning from my studies in Argentina, I continued to work with a furniture design firm in Cartagena. One of our clients was NH Gallery, where I discovered the universe of contemporary art and exhibition. Through them I came into contact with other well-known galleries in Bogotá that represent my work today.
Where do you draw inspiration from?: It is essentially from structural forms and topologies found in nature and the string theory that governs all. Beginning in Cartagena’s seascape – the fluid curves of seashells and the crashing waves on the beach. I am also inspired by the works of master artists like Alexander Calder, Jean Arp, Henry Moore and Lygia Clark.
How has your approach evolved through various materials and ceramics?: My journey of material exploration has seen wood, bronze casting and modular metal co-creative sculpture. I finally found resonance in ceramics, guided by my mother’s legacy and some childhood memories of clay. I rediscovered it as a process of exploration with fluid forms, aesthetics and equilibrium. There is great tactile engagement and architectural sensibility to create my biomorphic pieces.

Alejandro Frieri is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2010