[2023] Epiphanic - Reticence Collaboration
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Epiphanic (adjective): a sudden intuitive perception of or insight into the reality or essential meaning of something, usually initiated by some simple, homely or commonplace occurrence or experience.
There exists within the human psyche an innate capacity to find depth and meaning in the seemingly ordinary. This powerful ability transforms mundane moments into profound experiences that bear a deep resonance, often etching them into the canvas of our memory as cherished instances of understanding and connection. A random encounter on the street may metamorphose into a reflection of humanity's interconnectedness, where a simple smile exchanged becomes a testament to human kindness and the shared journey of life. Likewise, the habitual act of preparing a meal turns into a sacred ritual, embodying nourishment, love, and the cyclical nature of life.
When I met Driaan Claasen from Reticence Studio, an uncanny familial connection led us to develop a hand-carved wooden triptych that carried the epiphanic essence of our meeting. We seem to share the same inherent ability to see beyond the surface of things, perhaps stemming from our deep-seated desire to understand the world and our place within it on a more profound level. This allows us to navigate the complexities of human existence together, finding solace and beauty in the ordinary, and drawing lessons and insights from the most unlikely places.
The ‘Epiphanic’ sculptures are hand carved out of indigenous African wild teak (Pterocarpus angolensis), also referred to as a blood wood because of its ability to bleed a dark red sap when cut. The resemblance of the sap to blood has led to the belief in supposed magical healing powers concerning the blood. Because of its healing status and that it is also fire resistant, P. angolensis is often planted around huts to make a living fence in Angola. This wood also produces a rich, resonant sound and is the choice material for many different musical instruments, incuding the mbira, in South-East Africa.
- Reticence Studio
[2023] SELFI - Spirit Body Collection
SELFI is a Cape Town-based ready-to-wear clothing label by fashion designer Celeste Lee Arendse. She specialises in ethical apparel and accessories for women, and incorporates aspects of South African culture and identity in her designs. I had the privilege to collaborate with Celeste in the launch of her new Spirit Body collection, which resonates with my practice. The Spirit Body range is inspired by becoming more present within, and building a relationship with our internal energy. The collection features fabrics such as raw silk, ramie linen, 100% cotton and mohair, and embroidery depicting rock art, symbolising South Africa’s indigenous peoples’ spiritual connection to nature.
- SELFI: Website & Instagram
- Photographer: Mikhailia Petersen
[2023] The Weight of Expectation
The Weight of Expectation by Daniel Carter is a thought-provoking series that captures the essence of a creative’s struggle in the era of social media. Carter delves into the emotional journey of grappling with not only a high anticipation of ourselves, but also the overwhelming pressure to generate impactful content for an ever-expectant online audience.
The use of light and shadow in the artwork further emphasises the emotional depth of the artist's experience. The shadows symbolise the lurking doubts and insecurities that arise when the quest for validation through online engagement overshadows the passion for genuine expression. Ultimately, Daniel Carter's artwork serves as a poignant reminder to appreciate the artistic process, the vulnerability of creators, and the beauty that emerges when the inherent weight of expectations is transformed into a fuel that drives artistic expression.
- Dan Carter:
Website & Instagram
- Stylist:
Thapelo Mofokeng Style Page
The use of light and shadow in the artwork further emphasises the emotional depth of the artist's experience. The shadows symbolise the lurking doubts and insecurities that arise when the quest for validation through online engagement overshadows the passion for genuine expression. Ultimately, Daniel Carter's artwork serves as a poignant reminder to appreciate the artistic process, the vulnerability of creators, and the beauty that emerges when the inherent weight of expectations is transformed into a fuel that drives artistic expression.
- Dan Carter:
Website & Instagram
- Stylist:
Thapelo Mofokeng Style Page
[2023] Petroglyph
Petroglyphs are an ancient form of rock art that involves removing part of a rock surface through incising, picking, carving, or abrading. The term “petroglyph” comes from the Greek words petra meaning “rock’’ and glyphein meaning to “carve”. These enigmatic carved images emerged all over the world during various time epochs, some dating as far back as 18,000 years.
My first attempt at engraving into leather hard clay is a meditative experience, especially when considering a friend’s quote, “we are crowned by our scars”. The wounds of our psyche help us build a deeper sense of our identity, resulting in an enigmatic essence that allows others to get an unspoken feeling for who we are. In this particular work, due to the dark manganese minerals present in the clay, the figures are barely noticeable from a distance but reveal themselves as one approaches. Unfortunately, this piece perished during a kiln malfunction... perhaps a double omen in the leadup to me getting mauled by a dog a few days after. Ceramics, being a challenging craft, is in and of iteself a character-building exercise.
My first attempt at engraving into leather hard clay is a meditative experience, especially when considering a friend’s quote, “we are crowned by our scars”. The wounds of our psyche help us build a deeper sense of our identity, resulting in an enigmatic essence that allows others to get an unspoken feeling for who we are. In this particular work, due to the dark manganese minerals present in the clay, the figures are barely noticeable from a distance but reveal themselves as one approaches. Unfortunately, this piece perished during a kiln malfunction... perhaps a double omen in the leadup to me getting mauled by a dog a few days after. Ceramics, being a challenging craft, is in and of iteself a character-building exercise.
[2021] Volcanic Series
In today's era of sterile living spaces and industrialisation, there is a growing need for bringing ceramic objects that have a patina of rustic warmth into the home. The beauty of ceramic objects lies in their ability to connect us to the earth and our primal senses. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of modern life, it is easy to forget the simple pleasures of handmade objects and the history behind them.
In particular, I am inspired by the history of volcanic glazes, which have been used for centuries to create unique and striking pieces of pottery. The thick, encrusted glazes of the 1960s and ’70s, known as “fat lava”, evoke the raw power and beauty of nature, reminding us of the importance of embracing the imperfections and irregularities that make each piece one of a kind.
In our fast-paced, digital world, it is easy to forget the value of handmade objects and the stories they carry. By incorporating ceramic objects into our homes, we can create spaces that are infused with warmth, character, and history. My hope is that my work will serve as a reminder to slow down, connect, and appreciate the beauty in imperfection.
In particular, I am inspired by the history of volcanic glazes, which have been used for centuries to create unique and striking pieces of pottery. The thick, encrusted glazes of the 1960s and ’70s, known as “fat lava”, evoke the raw power and beauty of nature, reminding us of the importance of embracing the imperfections and irregularities that make each piece one of a kind.
In our fast-paced, digital world, it is easy to forget the value of handmade objects and the stories they carry. By incorporating ceramic objects into our homes, we can create spaces that are infused with warmth, character, and history. My hope is that my work will serve as a reminder to slow down, connect, and appreciate the beauty in imperfection.