A krater is a ceramic vessel common in ancient Greece whose purpose was to dilute wine. Kraters were often painted Black and orange and featured images from Greek mythology or history. Ghetto Krater is a continuation of this Greek tradition of storytelling. Lugo’s contemporary version of the vessel draws attention to the various manifestations of violence, including police brutality, that disproportionately affects people of color in economically disadvantaged urban communities. His interest in exploring these subjects stems in part from his personal experience growing up in the Philadelphia neighborhood of Kensington. A self-described “ghetto-potter,” Lugo says his decision to become a ceramicist gave him direction and purpose, essentially saving his life.
Description:
A black and orange ceramic in the form of a krater from ancient Greece. The ceramic features three bands of imagery. The topmost band consists of silhouette profiles of figures. The body of the ceramic depicts various scenes including figures playing basketball, a set of arms in handcuffs, a figure kneeling while pointing a gun, a figure crouching with hands on their head, a police officer in riot gear raising a baton, a police officer handcuffing another figure, a dollar sign pendant, and a city skyline. The lowest band of imagery includes figures in handcuffs; a figure on their hands and knees surrounded by three police officers, one with a gun and two with batons; a figure beating another; and a police officer in riot gear holding up a shield. Wave, meander, and Greek key motifs appear on the uppermost lip and between the bands of imagery. The interior of the top portion is glazed black and the interior of the lower portion is white.
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture purchased with funds provided by the Smithsonian Latino Initiatives Pool, administered by the Smithsonian Latino Center
