These are Abstract styled pottery pieces created by Roger Neufeld.
These are two uniquely crafted ceramic vessels that appear both ancient and artistically evocative. Each is rich with textured details, giving the impression of weathered stone, burnt wood, or perhaps an archaeological artifact unearthed after centuries beneath the earth.
The vessel on the left, "Brother Sky", embraces a more somber palette, dominated by muted earth tones - greys and browns with subtle hints of blue and green. It seems almost sculptural, with raised patterns that suggest miniature pillars or architectural elements. The surface bears a rugged, cracked texture, as if the clay itself has endured a long history of natural wear and human use. The gaps between segments on the vessel are airy, but in the act of embracing the air, it is made fragile.
In contrast, the vessel on the right "Sister Earth" sports more vibrant yet still earthy accents of green and yellow, which intertwine amid the rough surface. The shapes on this vessel seem to mimic natural forms, like vines or leaves climbing and curling around it, in a more elaborate, almost narrative style. This suggests an intimate connection with nature or life’s cyclical renewal.
Both pieces are tactile and visceral, evoking themes of time, decay, and resilience. Artistically, they could be seen as explorations of natural erosion or organic growth frozen in pottery form, melding the boundary between art and artifact. The use of irregular textures and uneven edges highlights the imperfection and raw beauty of the materials.
Roger has made a write up for these two pieces, it goes as such:
"Brother Sky" includes purposely fragile decoration that has already crumbled to some extent. It will certainly continue to do so. Bits that have already come off are included, should the purchaser have a whim to do something with them,consistent with the meaning "Brother Sky" might suggest.
The companion piece "Sister Earth" has comparable, but more robust decoration consistent with other Raku fired wares."
In interacting with the crumbling pieces of Brother Sky, it makes this piece both physical as well as performative, as what occurs with them, is up to the owner of Brother Sky.
These pieces were made by Raku firing the clay and having appliqued clay attached with different types of Glazes.
Roger created these in 2025.
The overall dimensions of the pottery pieces are 9" tall with a base diameter of 7".
These can be bought separately or as a set together.