A mysterious plant that never fades. This objet d’art by Alyne Ohigashi draws inspiration from the textures of a cactus, her knowledge of botany, and her imagination to create a fantastical botanical sculpture. Each bump and ridge is meticulously crafted and applied by hand, giving the piece a naturally organic rhythm. Wonderfully tactile, it offers new ways of experiencing form, revealing more of its secrets with every viewing. Sculpted out of Tobe porcelain—notoriously difficult to work with for a detailed art piece such as this—this creation also showcases Ohigashi’s vivid glazing techniques. Multiple layers of glaze meld soft blues, greens, and purples and gather in each dip in the clay, evoking tidepools or the waters of a tropical sea. Glassy and luminous, the interplay of light and shadow created by the texture invites viewing from every angle. Exploring new possibilities in Tobe ware, Ohigashi remains true to the materials of the craft while adding her own innovations. Drawing on botanical shapes and ocean hues familiar to her from a childhood spent in the Philippines, Ohigashi skillfully unifies her two homelands. The result feels both nostalgic and new, familiar and strange, an intriguing ambiguity that encourages the viewer to create their own meaning. Just like a real plant, this piece encourages an emotional bond with its caretaker. Every single ridge and curve is unique, reflecting both the symmetry and variation alive in the natural world. Not only beautiful but a delight to touch, this work brings a refreshing yet grounded presence to a foyer, centerpiece, or desk, inviting in turns conversation and quiet reflection. It is a playful symphony of imagination, a rhythmic ode to nature.
