Ceramics can take all shapes and forms, each a result of different techniques. Ask any pottery novice and they'll probably throw a few terms such as "wheel-throwing" and "hand-building". For young ceramist Daisy Toh, slip casting creates a certain kind of magic that has a calming effect on anyone who sets their eyes on her works.
Blending serene gradient hues with fluidity, Daisy's pieces mimic the beauty of nature. Those of ocean waves and warm-hued sunsets. And it comes as no surprise that Daisy – who is also a full-time teacher at The Potters Guilt – has been perfecting her craft for ten years and counting. The ceramist started at 16 after learning the craft at the School of the Arts Singapore (SOTA) and went on to master the art of slip casting in university in Taiwan.
Having formed a deep connection with Taiwan after her four-year studies there, she attempted to bring the landscapes she saw home – in the form of ceramics. “In Taiwan, the works that I did were just hues of blue because of the sky and ocean. I travel on the plane and I love looking up at the sky, and I love going to the sea."
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Her latest series, To Return From Sojourn, explores her experiences growing up in both Taiwan and Singapore, with details that reflect her growth during the formative years. It is showcased as part of this year's Young Talent Programme, an annual programme which provides a platform for talented young artists to be spotted by galleries and art institutions.
“The works in the exhibition focus on different elements: like colours, depth, and perspectives," Daisy explains. “I’m inspired by landscapes and the environment I’m in. These series is about sunsets and the sky.”
For Daisy, her journey as a ceramic artist is only just beginning. And this won't be the last time we see her works, either. She's currently creating for a few shows in January next year, including ceramic group shows at Singapore Art Week. So mark your calendars and keep this young talent on your radar.
You can see Daisy Toh's pieces at ION Art from November 6 to 22 as part of the Young Talent Programme.
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Meet the artist who reimagines classical figures into modern-day Singapore
Aisha Rosli shares her struggles as a young fine artist in Singapore
Ceramic artist Zestro Leow on using a traditional medium to create contemporary art