Terra Negra

About Terra Negra

This contemporary ceramic black bowl is by Steven Heinemann.

For the celebrated Canadian ceramicist Steven Heinemann, the humble shape of a bowl has always been an endless source of inspiration. One of a series of unique vessels he created by hand, the organic oval shape of Terra Negra is informed by nature. The black, smooth finish on the exterior offers a dramatic contrast to the earthy coloured, textured and cracked interior—a signature of Heinemann’s exceptional craftsmanship. Terra means ‘earth’.

“…you might say the bowl has this inherent modesty, it also offers a kind of theatre in which space can be activated, or some event takes place. In my case, that seems to be tied to phenomena, patterns, somewhere between organic growth and geologic events.” Steven Heineman

“His ceramics—sometimes intimate, other times monumental—operate on a metaphorical level, serving as touchstones at once connecting and undermining our interaction with plants, animals, and ancient spirits.” Dr. Rachel Gotlieb, Curator and Historian

Steven Heinemann earned an MFA from Alfred University, NY, in 1983 and has taught in Canada and the US. Heinemann has exhibited continuously since his first solo exhibition at the Ontario Crafts Council in 1982. His work is held in museums the world over. Heinemann has received many national and international awards.