Open Form Swirl Vessel

Breaking away from traditional ceramic form, Open Form Swirl Vessel by Efren Quezada is a sculptural expression of innovation rooted in deep cultural legacy. Hand-carved from a single piece of clay, this vessel features dramatic openwork and intersecting curves that twist through the body of the piece, creating an airy, architectural silhouette. At its center, a bold vertical band is adorned with intricate geometric patterns in black, red, and white — a nod to the ancient Paquimé iconography that inspires the Mata Ortiz tradition. The contrast between the raw, matte clay and the finely detailed painted strip creates a dynamic interplay of negative space and visual density. Circular cutouts add further complexity, allowing light to pass through and cast shadows that shift with the environment. More than a vase, this is a conversation piece — a fusion of design, precision, and cultural identity.