Rago Auctions

Magdalena Suarez Frimkess (b. 1929) and Michael Frimkess (b. 1937) are a renowned artistic duo known for their distinctive ceramic works that blend traditional techniques with contemporary themes. Born in 1929 in Caracas, Venezuela, Magdalena Suarez Frimkess studied painting and sculpture at the Escuela de Artes Plásticas y Aplicadas in her home country. Michael Frimkess, born in 1937 in Los Angeles, California, was an aspiring jazz musician who turned to ceramics after a vision he experienced during a peyote trip. He studied under Peter Voulkos at the Otis College of Art and Design alongside students including Ken Price and John Mason. Magdalena moved to the United States in the 1960s and met Michael in 1963, and after a short time they began working together and would eventually marry.

Magdalena's unique style is characterized by her use of vivid colors and intricate designs, often incorporating elements from popular culture, folklore, and her own personal experiences. Her work frequently features playful and satirical depictions of famous characters, blending high art with everyday imagery. Michael's work is distinguished by his exceptional skill on the potter's wheel, creating elegant and precise forms that serve as canvases for his and Magdalena's collaborative designs. His commitment to craftsmanship and his ability to integrate classical pottery techniques with contemporary aesthetics have made him a prominent figure in the ceramics community. Together, they have created a unique artistic language that combines Magdalena's vibrant and often whimsical imagery with Michael's masterful pottery. Their works are a fusion of different cultural influences, reflecting Magdalena's Latin American heritage and Michael's American roots.

One of the defining features of their collaborative work is the way they address social and political issues through their art. They often use humor and satire to comment on topics such as consumerism, popular culture, and historical events. This approach not only adds a layer of depth to their work but also makes it accessible and engaging to a broad audience. The duo has exhibited their work in numerous galleries and museums worldwide, earning a place in the collections of prestigious institutions such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Museum of Arts and Design, New York, and the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Renwick Gallery, Washington D.C.. They were the recipients of the Career Achievement Award from the Hammer Museum, Los Angeles in 2014.