Philadelphia’s Architecture and Water Features Inspire Local Artist’s Creations

Ceramic artist Vivian Purcell has found a vibrant source of inspiration in Philadelphia, a city she first discovered during a serendipitous layover in 2016. Originally hailing from South Carolina and a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art, Purcell’s connection with Philadelphia deepened when she relocated in 2019. She now resides in Fairmount and operates her studio in Brewerytown, where she forges a unique artistic path in one of the country’s prominent ceramics hubs.

Purcell regards Philadelphia as a significant center for ceramics due to its rich pottery production heritage and extensive natural clay deposits. To hone her craft, she initially worked at the Clay Studio as a work exchange artist, before establishing her independent practice. Her creations are steeped in the architectural grandeur and natural splendor that the city embodies.

Describing her artistic journey, Purcell reflects on how each corner of Philadelphia presents a new visual story, filled with intriguing patterns, iron gates, and intricate ornamentation. This urban landscape informs her work, as she often photographs the diverse brickwork, tiles, and detailed accents she encounters during her explorations. This attentiveness, she notes, fosters an even deeper bond with the city she adores.

Purcell’s recent ceramic pieces draw from specific architectural elements in Philadelphia, such as a pot inspired by the Free Library of Philadelphia’s green patina. Her fascination with the aging process and how it exposes underlying patterns significantly influences her designs. In an age dominated by industrial efficiency, Purcell champions an appreciation for beauty and craftsmanship, a sentiment deeply rooted in Philadelphia’s storied past.

Her ceramic offerings, which include pots, mugs, and bowls, integrate floral designs inspired by her own backyard alleyway, connecting urban life with the natural.

Working at a deliberate pace, Purcell emphasizes the significance of tactile experience in art. She meticulously hand-carves each piece, encouraging viewers to engage with her work through touch. Her artistic process reflects the practices of artisans from centuries ago, showcasing a continuity that resonates with her creative vision.

In addition to her personal artistic endeavors, Purcell manages the art department at the Community College of Philadelphia, which is housed in the historical United States Mint building. This role connects her to the legacy of another renowned artist, Gilroy Roberts, whose tools and sketches echo her own studio’s functionality and purpose.

Purcell’s work will be featured at the upcoming Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show, highlighting the collective passion of 195 artists dedicated to handcrafted artistry. This event aims to celebrate the intrinsic value of handmade objects in an era increasingly defined by mass production.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show will take place from November 7 to 9, 2023, offering a platform for artists like Purcell to showcase their commitment to quality and craftsmanship, reinforcing the belief that art should enrich daily life in meaningful ways.