Lodestars & Moonstones by Jan Vogelpoel
Lodestars & Moonstones by Jan Vogelpoel explores the ceramic artist’s fascination with light as a source of inspiration and energy for her sculptural forms.
Words: Hande Renshaw | Photography: Jan Vogelpoel & Milou Vogelpoel
‘I hope the viewer can feel or sense an ethereal presence effortlessly reflecting connection, fluidity and strength,’ says Jan Vogelpoel. Above & Hero Photo: Milou Vogelpoel
Moonstone Lamp by Jan Vogelpoel. Photo: Jan Vogelpoel
Moonstone I & II by Jan Vogelpoel. Photo: Jan Vogelpoel
Melbourne-based sculptor Jan Vogelpoel has been drawn to organic forms, shape and graphic line since she made sculpting her full-time focus back in 2019.
Her latest body of work, Lodestars & Moonstones at Mr Minty’s draws on her passion for these elements, each piece an evolution from her previous work, focused on challenging and moving further out of her comfort zone.
‘This collection is not so much different, but more of an evolution. I’m constantly challenging myself with the build and bringing new ideas to life,’ say Jan.
For the collection, Jan started her point of inspiration by asking herself, ‘How can I capture the essence of light without the usual cliche´representation of symbols of the moon, sun and stars?’
The series is a juxtaposition of opposites: black Scarva and white textured clay sculptures complement and contrast, the light and shadow, and the masculine and feminine.
Drawing on lodestars and moonstones, Jan’s interpretation was centred around astral figures and stones discovered on the moon.
‘We’re all feeling the shock of dark days, so I really felt like we all needed a ray of light to guide us through the world's turmoil and tragedies - I captured the essence of light without the usual cliché representation of symbols of the moon, sun and stars.’
‘Inspired ideas constantly pop into my head and its so exciting realising them and bringing them to life – I have a constant desire to create and satisfy my creative monster,’ says Jan Vogelpoel. Pictured: Lodestar Relief Sculptures by Jan Vogelpoel. Photo: Jan Vogelpoel
“I’m obsessed with light, especially natural light – it feeds my soul, elevates and inspires me. It’s also comforting and gives vision and brings my work to life.”
Moonstone sconce by Jan Vogelpoel. Photo: Jan Vogelpoel
Lodestar Vase III by Jan Vogelpoel. Photo: Jan Vogelpoel
Lodestar Abstract Tile by Jan Vogelpoel. Photo: Jan Vogelpoel
Lodestar Vase by Jan Vogelpoel. Photo: Jan Vogelpoel
Jan’s process starts with a sketch, which is then translated into building with clay using hand-rolled coils. Depending on the complexity of the piece, this process can take up to three days. She will often work on multiple pieces at once so that there is a synergy between the pieces.
‘I enjoy designing pieces that work together, two or three that have a connection and tell a story,’ says Jan.
Light, in particularly natural light, plays a big part in the creation process elevating, inspiring and giving vision to a piece.
‘It brings my work to life – directional natural light is the ultimate as this creates such great shadow and light play. The white clay bounces and reflects light, while the black absorbs which gives a strong grounded energy.’
She adds, ‘I hope the viewer can feel or sense an ethereal presence effortlessly reflecting connection, fluidity and strength.’
Lodestars & Moonstones will be exhibiting at Mr Minty’s in Potts Point, Sydney from today until Saturday 13th August.
LODESTARS & MOONSTONES BY JAN VOGELPOEL AT MR MINTY’S
THURSDAY 28TH JULY - SATURDAY 13TH AUGUST
Shop 7/81 Macleay Street, Potts Point NSW
