Finding Harmony: Anne Mette Hjortshøj and the Allure of Natural Ceramics

In the heart of the Baltic Sea, nestled amongst the rolling hills and rugged coastlines of Denmark, lies the island of Bornholm. For centuries, this idyllic haven has been a hub for ceramic artistry, its rich clay deposits whispering tales of creativity and tradition. It is here, amidst this legacy of craftsmanship, that ceramic artist Anne Mette Hjortshøj finds her inspiration, shaping clay into breathtaking vessels that echo the island’s natural beauty.

Hjortshøj’s journey is one of deep connection – to her materials, her surroundings, and the historical lineage of her craft. Unlike mass-produced ceramics, her work embodies a slow, deliberate process, a conversation between artist and earth. This article delves into the captivating world of Anne Mette Hjortshøj, exploring her unique approach to ceramics, the profound influence of Bornholm, and the enduring appeal of handmade objects imbued with soul.

A Foundation Built on Tradition and Exploration

Hjortshøj’s path to becoming a ceramic artist was paved with a childhood immersed in creativity and a deep appreciation for the tactile nature of clay. Growing up in Denmark during the 1970s, she was fortunate to have access to public school pottery classes, sparking an early fascination with the medium. This passion led her to pursue formal training at a folk high school with a focus on ceramics, followed by a year at drawing school to hone her artistic skills.

The pivotal moment in her journey arrived in 1997 when she enrolled in the newly established School of Ceramics and Glass on Bornholm. Led by renowned British potter John Gibson, the school provided a unique and immersive learning environment, fostering a deep understanding of both traditional techniques and contemporary approaches to ceramics.

Bornholm: An Island Muse

It’s impossible to separate Hjortshøj’s work from the profound influence of Bornholm. The island’s rich history of ceramic production, dating back centuries, is palpable in the very air she breathes. This legacy is further amplified by the presence of the Bornholm Clay Museum, a testament to the island’s enduring relationship with this versatile material. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of ceramic practices on the island, showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts and providing valuable insights into the techniques employed by generations past.

Beyond its historical significance, Bornholm provides a constant source of inspiration for Hjortshøj. The island’s dramatic landscapes, from its windswept beaches and rugged cliffs to its lush forests and tranquil lakes, are reflected in the organic forms and earthy tones of her work. The very clay she uses is a testament to this connection, sourced directly from the island’s soil, imbuing her pieces with a tangible link to their place of origin.

A Symphony of Clay, Glaze, and Fire

Hjortshøj’s creative process is a harmonious blend of meticulous planning and intuitive exploration. Every piece begins with a clear vision, meticulously documented in her trusty notebook. Each detail, from the shape and size of the vessel to the type of clay and glaze, is carefully considered, a testament to her deep understanding of the materials and the transformative power of the kiln.

Her studio, bathed in natural light, is a testament to her organized approach. It’s here that she experiments with different clay bodies, often blending local Bornholm clay with other varieties to achieve specific textures and finishes. This experimentation extends to her glazes as well. While she primarily employs salt glazing, a technique she holds dear, she also incorporates a curated selection of Asian glazes, such as Tenmoku and Nuka, to achieve unique surface effects.

The firing process itself is a carefully orchestrated performance. Hjortshøj utilizes three distinct wood-fired kilns, each with its own personality and firing characteristics. Her largest kiln, a traditional Noborigama (climbing kiln), is reserved for her main body of work. The first chamber is used for both raw and glazed pieces, while the second chamber is dedicated to salt glazing. A smaller wood-fired test kiln allows her to experiment with new clay and glaze combinations, while her anagama kiln, built entirely from clay, represents a collaborative project focused on exploring the possibilities of wild clay from Bornholm.

Finding Beauty in Functionality and Everyday Rituals

Hjortshøj’s ceramics are not merely objects of art; they are designed to be used, to become integral parts of everyday life. Renowned chef Nigel Slater, a collector of her work, eloquently captures this sentiment in his essay for the catalogue accompanying her exhibition at the Goldmark gallery. He describes how her pieces elevate the simplest of meals, their earthy textures and warm glazes enhancing the sensory experience of dining.

A simple bowl filled with soup, a platter laden with freshly baked bread, a vase showcasing the vibrant hues of wildflowers – Hjortshøj’s ceramics transform these everyday rituals into moments of quiet beauty. They serve as a reminder to slow down, to appreciate the simple pleasures of life, and to find joy in the act of nourishing ourselves and others.

A Legacy of Inspiration and the Enduring Appeal of Handmade Objects

Anne Mette Hjortshøj’s work embodies a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and a deep reverence for the natural world. Her ceramics are not mere objects but vessels imbued with the spirit of their maker and the essence of their island home. They serve as a testament to the enduring power of handmade objects, reminding us of the beauty to be found in imperfection, the value of slow living, and the importance of cherishing the connection between nature, craft, and everyday life.

Further Exploration:

• Bornholm Clay Museum: Discover the rich history of ceramics on Bornholm Island.
• The Leach Pottery: Explore the legacy of Bernard Leach, a pivotal figure in the studio pottery movement and a source of inspiration for countless ceramic artists, including Hjortshøj.
• The American Craft Council: Learn more about the contemporary craft movement and discover the work of other talented ceramic artists.