A cup is an interesting piece of art that can be visually appreciated as well as used for its functionality. When a cup is thrown the artist can make it to sit on a gallery pedestal or to specifically be purchased for a functional cup. Cups have the combined aspects of aesthetics as well as function (Charlie Cummings). Because of this, an artist must think about how he/she wants their cup to feel in a person’s hands and how the handle corresponds with the chosen feel.
Malcolm Mobutu Smith makes his cups with the intent of conveying a statement or thought. The forms of his cup bodies tend to be bold in shape as well as in color. As pieces of art, the cups are stunning, but when they are considered for use, the handles are what make the use of the cup difficult.
His handles tend to not be attached to the cup on both ends, so the drinker would have to have a constant hard grip on the handle in order to drink with it.
When a person is asked to think of what cup he/she generally drinks out of, he/she might think of something like a mug, especially if he/she drinks hot liquids. Linda Arbuckle has made a mug here that is very functional. The handle allows the holder’s grip to rest while still holding the cup. She also added visual aspects by painting on design with color. It appears to be a mug that would be used in a fruit themed set even though it stands on its own.
Sources:
"Semifjord Cloud Cup," Malcolm Mobutu Smith. http://accessceramics.org/results/object/2/
" Cup: Fruited Fall," Linda Arbuckle. http://accessceramics.org/results/object/2/
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