Deirdre Botha (Pretoria)

2025 Sasol New Signatures Finalist

Captain Courageous

Earthenware ceramics, metal & glass

44 cm x 36 cm x 16 cm

Artist’s Statement

This ceramic sculpture is designed to spark joy in a serious world. It is a celebration of whimsy, colour, and imagination. The piece serves as a playful interruption to the weight of everyday life—an invitation to pause, smile, and engage with the lighter side of existence.

The delightful absurdity of penguins captaining their own submarine creates a narrative of adventure, camaraderie, and the idea that anyone—regardless of their nature—can take the helm of an extraordinary journey.

The tactile nature of ceramics adds to its charm: smooth surfaces, cheerful textures, and exaggerated proportions that beg to be touched, explored, and enjoyed. This piece may evoke the nostalgia of childhood wonder, the joy of storytelling, or simply serve as a gentle reminder that even in serious times, playfulness has power.

Gallery

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