About
Melbourne-based Jan Vogelpoel produces handmade, sculptural pieces that embody her love for the raw, natural finish of fired clay. Nuanced interventions – such as strategically placed voids, etchings and undulations – use light and shadow to emphasise form and texture, creating minimalist works that have a distinct energy and personality. Alongside this focus on texture and form, the architecture of nature and man is another defining narrative throughout her work.
Combining a mid-century design aesthetic with a contemporary minimalist approach, Jan’s intuitive and fervent process produces ceramic sculptures that hold an ethereal presence in any space, effortlessly reflecting connection, fluidity and strength. Each piece carries the energy of nature and the maker, and the characteristic raw finish of her work makes them highly tactile, recalling the textures of sandstone cliffs or ancient artefacts.
Born in the UK and raised in South Africa, Jan has worked with clay for over 20 years, honing her skills under South African ceramicist artists Barbara Jackson and Karen Scott. After a career in graphic design, interior styling and art direction, she started working with clay full-time in her Melbourne studio in 2019.
artist statement
The process of building a sculpture is tangible and permanent.
My work reflects my passion for bringing an idea to life through manipulating and building sculptural pieces that carry the energy of nature and the maker. When I hold the clay and feel it in my hands, there is a connection to the energy of the past and present.
My decision to work with clay holds a duty to respect the environment and make choices that are mindful of the earth and its resources. This awareness flows through each of my pieces which have been made to be admired for generations.
EXHIBITIONS
Chasing change – Group exhibition Modern Times 2023
Grayscale – Group exhibition Becker Minty 2023
Interconnected – Group exhibition Anfisa 2023
Shortlisted for the Omnia Art awards 2023
A gentle unwinding – Group exhibition Modern Times 2022
Lodestars and Moonstones – Solo exhibition Mr Minty’s 2022
Art series – Group exhibition Tigmi trading 2022
White at the end of the tunnel – Group exhibition Mr Minty’s 2022
PINK – Group exhibition Becker Minty 2021
Shortlisted for the The Design Files + Laminex Awards 2021
Talismans, Rafts, Mementos – Group exhibition Modern Times 2020
Artist in Focus – Solo exhibition Mondern Times 2020
Shortlisted for the Victorian Craft Awards established by Craft Victoria 2019
I acknowledge the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation, the traditional custodians of this land. I pay my respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.