Skip to main content
Bronze Cats

Party's bronze cat sculptures, such as "Cat's Head" (2017), demonstrate his meticulous approach to sculpture. The process involves creating detailed models that are then cast in bronze, a technique that allows for both durability and a high level of detail. The finished sculptures are often painted in bright, non-traditional colors, adding a playful and surreal element to the otherwise classical forms. This combination of traditional bronze casting with vibrant coloration is a hallmark of Party’s style, merging old and new in a way that is uniquely his own (Xavier Hufkens) (Artsy).

The cat sculptures often embody themes of mystery and playfulness, characteristic of Party’s broader body of work. Cats, with their enigmatic nature and graceful forms, serve as perfect subjects for Party's exploration of these themes. The sculptures capture the essence of cats—both their physical beauty and their aloof, almost mystical presence. This duality is further emphasized by the use of bronze, a material traditionally associated with permanence and classical art, juxtaposed with Party’s modern, vibrant finishing techniques (Xavier Hufkens) (Artsy).

One of the significant exhibitions featuring Party’s bronze cat sculptures was at Xavier Hufkens, where the sculptures were displayed alongside his other works, creating a cohesive narrative that bridges his paintings and sculptures. The exhibition "Three Seasons" at Xavier Hufkens in 2017 prominently featured the "Black Cat" sculpture, showcasing how Party’s work in different mediums can interact to create a comprehensive artistic environment. These exhibitions highlight the versatility of Party’s sculptures and their ability to engage viewers in multiple contexts (Xavier Hufkens) (Xavier Hufkens).

Party's cat sculptures draw inspiration from various historical and contemporary sources. His work is influenced by classical sculpture techniques as well as modern artists who play with color and form. This synthesis of influences allows Party to create works that are both rooted in tradition and boldly innovative. His interest in polychromy, the ancient art of painting sculptures, is particularly evident in these pieces, as he reintroduces color in ways that challenge traditional perceptions of bronze sculpture (Xavier Hufkens) (Artnet News).