Los Angeles Modern Auctions (LAMA)

Born in 1929 in Caracas, Venezuela, Magdalena Suarez Frimkess studied painting at the Escuela de Artes Plásticas y Aplicadas in Caracas and sculpture at Catholic University in Santiago, Chile. In her early career, Magdalena's work was influenced by the rich cultural tapestry of Venezuela and often reflected the colors, folklore, and traditions of her homeland. She was awarded a fellowship to study ceramics in the United States at the Clay Art Center in Port Chester, New York in the early 1960s, where she met her future husband and artistic collaborator, Michael Frimkess.

Frimkess’s approach to ceramics is notably collaborative. She often works on pieces thrown by her husband, Michael, decorating them with her unique designs. This partnership has allowed her to experiment with different forms and surfaces, pushing the boundaries of traditional ceramics. Magdalena's work is not just decorative but also serves as a commentary on various social and political issues. Through her art, she addresses themes such as consumerism, cultural identity, and the intersection of different cultural narratives. Her work is characterized by vivid colors, intricate patterns, and a keen sense of humor. She frequently incorporates elements from popular culture, including comic book characters, cartoon figures, and everyday objects, creating a delightful juxtaposition of high art and popular imagery. This blending of influences results in pieces that are both visually striking and thought-provoking.

Though her work has been exhibited widely for decades and achieved substantial critical acclaim, her first solo exhibition was not held until 2013 when she was 84 years old. In 2024, she will be given the long overdue honor of her first museum exhibition, a career retrospective at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art; entitled Magdalena Suarez Frimkess: The Finest Disregard, the show will open in August and run until January 5, 2025, offering a comprehensive look at her ceramics, paintings, and drawings, including a selection of collaborative works made with her husband, Michael.