Organic Modern large scale gourd shaped ceramic vessel by Shawn Banks. This 21st Century piece stands at 27 inches high and weighs 39lbs! The organic modern vase takes the shape of a gourd with a rounded hourglass silhouette. The yellow vase is accented with meandering coral colored lines surrounding amorphous orange shapes. Banks is a St. Petersburg, Florida based artist. The lines are reminiscent of waters flowing around islands, sandbars or through marshes. Conversely one could also liken the lines and orange bodies to cell walls around a nucleus, or simply enjoy them as funky pattern. The unique, gently weathered patina on the vase was created by placing the unglazed piece outdoors. Wind, rain, sun, and soil have left their mark. After allowing Mother Nature to do her part, the vase was cleaned and sealed with a lacquer finish. This ceramic vessel is meant to be decorative. It is not intended to hold water or food items.
This Shawn Banks ceramic vessel is a commanding example of contemporary organic modernism, standing about 27 inches (69 cm) high and weighing approximately 39 lbs (≈18 kg) — an impressive scale that gives it both visual and physical presence. Its widest diameter is about 15.75 inches (40 cm), giving it a substantial footprint ideal for pedestal display or as a center-piece among sculptural objects.
The form is a rounded hourglass or double-gourd silhouette, the curves flowing and balanced. Surface is painted in a vibrant yellow ground adorned with meandering coral-tone lines and amorphous patches of warm orange, patterns evoking imagery of waterways, islands, cellular networks or sunlit marshes. The finish carries a gently weathered patina: the artist left the piece unglazed outdoors so that sun, rain, wind, and soil would mark it; afterward it was cleaned and sealed with a clear lacquer, preserving both texture and color.
This is decorative art rather than functional pottery — it is not intended to hold water or food. Minor wear from the outdoor weathering is evident but adds character, depth and authenticity rather than detracting. No visible cracks or chips; finish remains stable; the piece reads as well-made, vibrant, and thoughtfully executed.
In interiors its dramatic color and large scale allow it to act as anchor: on a low console, plinth, or entry table, it draws focus. It works especially beautifully alongside rich woods, marble, polished metals, or neutral stones; the yellow/orange palette brings warmth and energy, allowing dramatic contrast in darker rooms or harmony in lighter palettes.
For collectors of contemporary ceramics, studio pottery, or decorative art with both color and texture, this vase is rare: bold scale + original artist name + unusual patina process. Owning it is to bring into a space not just an accent, but a centerpiece with personality, artistry, and presence.
15.75” Wide x 27” High
39lbs
Condition: Gently weathered patina to the finish.
This listing is for the vase alone. The chairs have sold. The striped Knoll room divider is available, sold separately.