Overview

American ceramist Leah Kaplan explores movement, texture and translucency through sculptural forms. Her signature porcelain vessels balance fluidity with minimalism, belying their intricate construction and inviting viewers to take a closer look. Rooted in traditional handbuilding techniques such as pinching, coiling and slab building, her process is guided by a deep exploration of porcelain’s materiality, often yielding unexpected and nuanced results.

Kaplan has worked with clay for more than 30 years, honing her skills in studios and schools along the East Coast. In 2018, she renovated a studio in Old City, Philadelphia, where she established her full time practice. Her path to ceramics has been eclectic, including her work promoting New York City designers and helping global artisans find markets for their craft. Through this experience, she encountered skilled makers across a wide range of mediums, whose influence continues to shape her work today. Kaplan’s vessels have been exhibited in internationally juried shows and are held in both corporate and private collections, reflecting the enduring appeal and craftsmanship of her practice.
Works
  • Leah Kaplan, Crewel Beta
    Crewel Beta
  • Leah Kaplan, Crewel Bolero
    Crewel Bolero
  • Leah Kaplan, Crewel Chi
    Crewel Chi
  • Leah Kaplan, Crewel Phi
    Crewel Phi
  • Leah Kaplan, Crewel Twist
    Crewel Twist
  • Leah Kaplan, Ribbon Luna
    Ribbon Luna
  • Leah Kaplan, Whirling Dervish Astor
    Whirling Dervish Astor
Exhibitions