Tendrils

Tendrils

By artist: Gabrielle O'Brien

Black porcelain and white raku with glaze. 15 x 15 x 15 cm

This sculptural work in black porcelain evokes foliage emerging in the dim understory of a rainforest. Glossed tendrils, leaves, and flower forms unfurl from the darkness, their surfaces catching selective glazes of green that hint at new growth. Rising from a white raku base, the piece suggests a quiet but determined ascent as nature reaches upward and outward towards the light. The contrast between deep porcelain black and luminous greens creates a sense of transformation, capturing the moment when shadow gives way to vitality.

About the artist.

Gabrielle's work is grounded in a deep appreciation for the natural world while drawing inspiration from rich traditions of English, European and Asian ceramics with their maximalist floral and botanical motifs. Her practice explores the expressive possibilities of porcelain, paper clay, and other sculptural clays through hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques. Gabrielle is drawn to the material’s capacity for delicacy and detail, allowing it to be shaped into botanical forms and mythical creatures that sit between sculpture and ornament. In 2022, the Museum of Brisbane acquired her artwork "Jacaranda" for its permanent collection. She regularly exhibits in local community art shows, including Ceramic Arts Queensland’s Elemental exhibition, and Redcliffe Pottery Group’s Clay on Display exhibitions, and sells her work in The Glasshouse and Co.

Collection or delivery.

This item is part of the Plant Empire Garden Art Exhibition, on display at Plant Empire from 17 October - 22 November 2026. Exhibition items are available for sale in person or online. In the unlikely event that a customer purchases the item in-store at the same time as it is sold online, we will refund the online purchase - thank you in advance for your understanding if this situation does occur. Exhibition pieces will be available for collection in-store or delivered from 23 November: to collect your item in person, please select the 'in-store pickup' option at checkout; or to have it delivered, please select either the Australia Post or courier option (Brisbane only) at checkout and your delivery fee will be calculated automatically.