Ryan Takaba

Takaba’s practice is centered around the body, the object and the built environment, addressing materiality and functionality to solve design problems, formal aesthetics, and conceptual stances.  His sculptures, tableaux, and installations are a study of scientific reason and the power of belief, incorporating thematic materials -flowers, ash, wax, and water.  His interest in materials as it pertains to science, process and duration, chance and unpredictability stem from his training and education in the ceramic discipline.  Takaba received an MFA in Ceramics from Kent State University and a BFA in Ceramics from the University of Hawai`i.  He has received grants and residencies from The European Ceramic Work Center -Netherlands, The Pottery Workshop in Jingdezhen -China, The Kunstlerhaus Bethanien in Berlin -Germany sponsored by The Contemporary Blue Star -San Antonio, Artist Foundation Visual Arts Grant -San Antonio, the Teaching Artist Cohort Grant awarded by The Center for Craft -Asheville, and Artpace -San Antonio.  Alongside his experimental exhibition work, Takaba’s interest in public space has led to collaborations on public art projects for the city of San Antonio and Houston Hobby Airport.