Artist’s Bio

Margit Nellemann grew up on the small island of Fyn in Denmark. Margit first discovered ceramics while living on the Balearic island of Minorca. She studied for a year with a Minorcan ceramist before moving to Southern Spain where she continued her explorations in clay.

In 1993 Margit came to Canada and began to focus all her energy on ceramics. Combining her passion for clay with her love for water Margit began to create water fountains. Fascinated by the world of water, its energy and movement, Margit is constantly exploring new designs for her fountains. As an avid gardener Margit also creates art for the garden. She makes masks as well as large decorative pieces, statues and murals.

"I am very passionate about clay and enjoy the various challenges this medium offers. I have chosen to integrate my love of water, texture, form and patterns into my clay work. My work consists of sculptural and non-functional ceramic, such as large vessels, vases, bowls, murals and water fountains. I enjoy exploring the movement and energy of water and replicate the fascinating and endless patterns and shapes from nature. All my work is hand-built. I start with slabs of clay that I drape over various shapes and forms. Once the clay is strong enough, I coil and alter it to obtain the desired size and shape. Before reaching the leather-hard stage, I draw freehand directly onto the pieces, covering the entire surface with intricate tattoos. I use the clay as my canvas. After the bisque firing, I brush glaze into the tattoo design and leave the colour of the clay exposed. The inside of the piece is glazed and the piece is fired to cone 6 in oxidation."