Adriel Barham

Adriel Barham (He/Him/His)
Studio Art major, Art History minor

This collection explores themes of value, repair, purpose, and connection through abstract sculptures. Inspired by the concept of Kintsugi, the Japanese technique for repairing broken ceramics with lacquer and gold dust, I use gilded elements to bind and connect discarded wood, industrial and scrap metal, and clay vessels manipulated beyond functionality. Subverting the idea of repair, this process gives the materials a second life and renewed sense of value without adding any practical utility.

These pieces celebrate “flaws”, transforming fractured forms into moments of beauty, appreciation, and reflection. My work process is guided by the natural tendencies of the materials, interpreting their inner forms through intimate, technical, yet unscripted labor.