Larry Buller creates kitschy, low-brow ceramics that push the boundaries of this traditional craft form. Buller’s work is shaped by the repressive, yet flamboyant gay subculture of the 1980s. His art embraces themes of sexual fetish, masculinity, and religion. Noting that Queer voices are traditionally marginalized by the dominant culture, viewers are initially seduced by lavish surface treatments including gemstones, gold luster, and decals. Upon closer inspection, a subversive intention is revealed. Buller relishes in creating art that questions the boundaries of what is in “good taste” for the domestic environment. Showy vases and platters are imbued with images of men in bondage gear or puppy play masks, surrounded by religious iconography, chubby cherubs, and flowers.
Buller received his MFA from the Hixon-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts at the University of Nebraska in 2016. In addition to maintaining an active studio practice, he is also a part-time lecturer in the foundations art program at the University. Buller has also been an activate artist-in-residence around the country and world. His most recent residency experiences include the Zentrum für Keramik (Berlin, DE), Anderson Ranch Art Center (Snowmass Village, CO), and Red Lodge Clay Center (Red Lodge, MT). In addition to recognition through residency opportunities, Buller has been featured by a number of galleries including the American Museum of Ceramic Art (Pomona, CA), the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts (Omaha, NE), Mortal Machine Art Gallery (New Orleans, LA), SCOPE Art Show (Miami, FL), the Society of Arts and Crafts (Boston, MA) and a variety of exhibitions at National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts conferences.