Artist Statement
Tyra Kaplan is a functional ceramic artist whose work is deeply rooted in place, memory, and environment. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in ceramics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2023. Drawing inspiration from the landscapes that surround her as well as locations encountered through travel, Tyra’s work reflects a personal connection to atmosphere, texture, and the quiet details that define a space.
Working primarily in functional ceramics while occasionally exploring sculpture, she is interested in the relationship between objects and the environments they inhabit. Surface, color, and form are used to evoke a sense of familiarity and connection, often referencing the natural world and the emotional impressions left by specific places. Whether inspired by expansive natural scenery or subtle moments observed in everyday life, her work aims to create objects that feel grounded and deeply connected to their surroundings.
Ciriculum Vitae
Tyra Kaplan(Carstens)
Born 2000, Omaha, NE
Lives and works in Elkhorn, NE
Education
2023 Bachelors in Fine and Performing Arts with a ceramics emphasis
Minor in Business
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Solo Exhibitions
2021 Spring Gardens, Lincoln, NE, Medici Gallery
Group Exhibitions
2026 Cedar Creek Coffee & Art: Living Gallery Program, Mugs currently in-use in the coffeeshop
2026 Cedar Creek Coffee & Art: Pastry Case Show, Elkhorn, NE, April Showers Bring May Flowers
2023 Capstone Exhibition, Capstone Exhibition, Lincoln, NE, Eisentrager-Howard Gallery
2020 Annual Juried Undergraduate Exhibition, Caution to the Wind, Lincoln, NE, Eisentrager-Howard Gallery
Jurors: Ash Smith, Jesse Fleming
2020 Making History, Lincoln, NE, Eisentrager-Howard Gallery
Awards/Scholarships
2018 Hixson-Lied Fine and Performing Arts Scholarship