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Two Turtles: A Ceramic Pill Holder Set
Project type
Ceramic Sculpture and Functional Art
Date
September 2022
PROJECT OVERVIEW:
This project combines functionality and artistic design in a unique set of two ceramic pill holders, each shaped like a turtle. The first pill holder represents a sea turtle, adorned with a blue oceanic glaze that evokes the tranquility and depth of the sea. The second pill holder is a land turtle, painted in a grassy green glaze to reflect the vibrant, natural tones of earth and vegetation. Both turtles are designed to rest on their backs, with their stomachs forming a shallow depression perfect for holding pills. The two turtles are designed to stack on top of each other, with the sea turtle positioned above the land turtle, creating a harmonious balance between the sea and land elements. The pairing of these creatures speaks to the balance between nature's environments, while offering a practical solution to hold small items like pills beside a dinner plate.
DESIGN OBJECTIVE:
Functional Art - The primary goal is to combine the practical use of the pill holders with a creative and artistic design. The turtles must not only serve their function but also be visually striking, with unique glazes and sculptural details that add an artistic touch to the dining table.
Natural Aesthetic - The sea turtle, glazed in rich, deep blues, reflects the colors of the ocean, with subtle, flowing patterns to evoke water and movement. The tortoise, painted in earthy greens, showcases the colors of the earth and grass. Both glazes feel organic and textured, adding a tactile quality to the pieces.
Balance and Harmony - The ability to stack the two turtles creates an intentional balance between the ocean and land elements, symbolizing the harmony between the different realms of nature. The sea turtle rests on top of the tortoise, reflecting how both creatures coexist in their own environments.
Tactile Detail - The sculptural elements of the turtles are rendered with care. The texture of the turtles' shells, the delicate carving of their limbs, and the slight curve of their bodies make the pieces visually interesting from every angle. Their flat, rounded bellies are the perfect resting spots for pills, with subtle indentations that make the functionality seamless while still keeping the aesthetic intact.
Whimsical Yet Elegant Design - The turtles should maintain a sense of playfulness and whimsy, making them charming companions for a dinner setting. However, the clean lines of the design and the thoughtful application of glazes ensure that the pieces remain elegant and sophisticated.
OUTCOME:
The final ceramic set is both a functional and decorative addition to any dining space. The sea turtle and land turtle, with their unique glazes and organic textures, add a touch of nature to the dining table, while their stacking design offers a charming way to keep pills nearby in an accessible and visually appealing way. The combination of whimsy and function make the set not only useful but also a conversation starter, inviting appreciation for the artistry and thought behind each piece. The turtles' serene yet playful expressions evoke a sense of calm and connection to nature, making the set a delightful piece of functional art for everyday use.







