aperture
a sculptural trio of oil burning candles - 2025
work
Aperture is a sculptural trio of oil-burning candles that explore the interplay between rawness and refinement, using the elemental qualities of pewter to meditate on perception, transformation, and truth. Cast in sand to achieve rough, tactile exteriors and patinaed to a dark finish, each square form varies in height and dimension, evoking both monumentality and intimacy. At the heart of each piece lies a circular mirror polished dish, a striking contrast to the rugged shell that contains it. Underneath, a refillable cannister of paraffin oil keeps the candles burning indefinitely.
The mirrored inner surface reflects the flame that hovers above, creating a layered visual effect: direct light and reflected glow converge, especially when viewed from above. The illusion invites viewers to question what is seen versus what is reflected, a dialogue between presence and perception. Whether arranged as a unified candelabra or displayed individually, the set reinterprets the historic use of metal as a reflective surface, once used before the invention of modern mirrors.
Rooted in the material truth of pewter, a metal both humble and luminous, the work honors the ancient relationship between fire and reflection. In doing so, it offers a contemporary take on timeless rituals of light, shadow, and self-awareness.
Aperture was shown at Minnesota St. Project’s re.riddle gallery in the group show “Closer Than They Appear” curated by Anand Sheth and re.riddle. The show centered on reflections, both literal and metaphorical.
process
Aperture is made from cast pewter with a chemically patinaed black exterior and polished mirror interior. I developed the form and proportions using quick paper models. I made the mold postives using 3D printing and plaster texturing. The postives were then used to make silcone rubber molds to achieve the vertical walls and complex internal threading for the oil resevoir. Pewter casts at a low temperature, allowing me to execute the entire project from my small San Francisco apartment (and sometimes the street outside).
Dimensions
Large 160mm W x 160mm D x 40mm H | 6.25in W x 6.25in D x 1.50in H)
Medium 120mm W x 120mm D x 60mm H | 4.75in W x 4.75in D x 2.25in H)
Small 80mm W x 80mm D x 120mm H | 3.25in W x 3.25in D x 4.75in H)
To purchase or request more info, please email ellen.s.posch@gmail.com. Photography by Paige Thornton, re.riddle, Storefront Anand Sheth, and Dianna Meek