Black Poppyseed Capsule No 2

About Black Poppyseed Capsule No 2

This contemporary ceramic vessel was inspired by nature and rendered in black.

As a masterful ceramicist, Loren Kaplan has been intrigued by the concept of containers; the idea that an empty form or vessel can be filled and represents potential. Over the years she has created variations of the form of a poppy seed capsule as part of her exploration of the idea of ‘space.’
This natural form has a floral petal-like closed top that sits on an attractive bulb shape. It is handmade from black clay—the surfaces are highly textured—both coarse and smooth. One of a series.

“The opium poppy, among many other things, has been seen as a symbol of transcendence, a way to push and break down the barriers we build. It has been used ritualistically and recreationally to exceed the limits of our realities.” Loren Kaplan

Loren Kaplan earned a BFA from the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, and studied at the Kim Sacks School of Ceramics. In 1995 she established a studio and began a teaching career with the Visual Arts and Crafts Academy in Johannesburg. Kaplan has exhibited regularly in South Africa, Canada, and the US and has received numerous awards. Her work is held in many private collections including the South African Constitutional Court Art Collection.