Good Morning Blues Vase

Hylton Nel, born in Zambia and now based in Calitzdorp, South Africa, is known for his whimsical, idea-driven ceramics, often featuring references to ancient art, politics, literature, decorative, and visual arts.

Nel and Kim Jones, longtime friends, recently collaborated on the Spring 2025 Dior Menswear collection which debuted in June 2024. The runway was studded with five oversized cat sculptures by Nel, all magnified versions of his original works. Notably, the original cat in heels came from Jones' personal collection, and was carried by a model in the show's opening look.

Nel's artistic influence extended throughout the collection, with his immediately recognizable designs, characters, and motifs appearing on various pieces ‐ a blue dog on a white sweater, blue flowers on a white jacket, intricately embroidered animals, and flowers on leather bags. The phrase "Dior for my real friends," written in Nel's handwriting, was woven into the collection, underscoring the deeply personal and creative exchange between the two collaborators.

On this vase, Nel pays homage to Bessie Smith, the legendary 1930s blues singer known then as the "Empress of Blues" with an inscription of her lyrics across the front "Good mornin' blues; Blues how do you do?; I'm doin' all right.; Good mornin'; How are you?"

The vase is predominantly decorated with blue, accented with a red checkered pattern on the side. A large blue stork motif is on the opposite side and what appear to be piano keys line the bottom edge. The vase excellently exhibits Nel's signature style.

Signed with initials and dated 'N H R 12 21 15' (on the bottom).

EXHIBITED:

London, The Fine Art Society, Hylton Nel: For Use and Display, May-June 2017, no. 74 (illustrated).