Joël Brodovsky-Adams

Joël Brodovsky-Adams is a Brooklyn-based artist whose ceramic practice explores indulgence, pleasure, and queerness as radical acts in the face of austerity and productivity culture. Rooted in a deeply physical, process-oriented approach, his work is built entirely from wheel-thrown components—ranging from full-scale bars to the smallest details of functional objects like lamps and stools. These pieces occupy a space between sculpture and furniture, possessing theatrical, bodily qualities that suggest both utility and performance. Drawing from domestic and public spheres—particularly the Queer Club—his work frames pleasure as a valuable pursuit, challenging dominant narratives that prioritize labor over life.

Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Joël began working with ceramics in 2013 at L’aluminé Studio in Montreal. He earned a post-bachelor’s certificate from NSCAD University in Halifax and recently completed his MFA in ceramics at the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. He is currently the Artist Fellow at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City. His work has been exhibited internationally, including shows at the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery in Ontario, Sculpture Space in New York City, and a two-person exhibition in Halifax following a residency at Guldagergaard International Ceramic Research Center in Denmark. In fall 2024, he completed a residency at Sculpture Space, further developing his artistic practice.