07. February 2018

Letting in the Light: Ceramic Lanterns

Is it art or a light fixture -- or both? The beauty of putting light into a ceramic form is that it can be an interesting piece on its own, while providing a unique accent light at the same time. Unlike any standard light fixture, a sculptural ceramic lantern casts shadows in unusual ways, letting light through openings in the form or alternatively, through ultra-thin porcelain walls. A porcelain lantern with a thin, carved surface will cast images and patterns when light shines through (see photos below). The piece at left is is a new one of mine, a closed cylinder with pierced "shells" covering the form.

Aqua Splash: Leo Peck: Porcelain Sconce | Artful Home

The lantern above, on the left, is by Amy Cooper, an artist who makes lovely, organic, porcelain luminaries of many sizes and shapes. At right is a unique wall sconce by Leo Peck. I found the image of his sconce through the Artful Home website.

I've always enjoyed experimenting with adding light to my sculptures, and I made several new lanterns over the last year. I'm pleased to have four of them included in an upcoming show at Florida CraftArt, titled “LightHeaded: New Directions in Fine Craft Lighting." The exhibition includes some very unusual pieces and vows to offer a "new look at fine-craft lighting." The show runs from February 10 to March 24, in St Petersburg, Florida. For more information, check their website: http://www.floridacraftart.org/exhibitions/lightheaded/
Images of my lanterns included in the show are below:

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Comments: 4

#1
James Kirkwood (Wednesday, 27 January 2021 12:04)

How can I purchase these luminaries?

I am a pottery nut plus a luminary nut, so I am "nuts".

Thanks,

- James
#2
Elizabeth (Wednesday, 03 February 2021 12:44)

Glad you like them, James! Feel free to message me directly using my "to contact me" page on my website. I'll answer any questions you have about what's currently available.

Thanks again for your interest!
#3
Giovanna la Falce (Saturday, 07 August 2021 03:35)

Hi. Is the Scallopp lantern available and what is the price? Ty glf
#4
Elizabeth (Sunday, 08 August 2021 12:44)

The Scallop Lantern is available, and the price is $450. Let me know if you'd like more information.

Thanks!