London

Heide Nonnenmacher

Mixed media sculptor | Nattheim, Germany

Porcelain to explore fossilisation

Heide's work revolves around the fossil phenomenon in her region of Germany
She started out as a functional potter before becoming more conceptual
She shows a playful interest in science in her works

Heide Nonnemacher admired her aunt, textile artist Lotte Hoffmann, as a child. "When we were with her, it was like we were in a magical world." Heide studied art to become a teacher. In parallel to this a friend taught her many ceramic techniques, and she opened her own pottery workshop in the mid-1980s. As a free artist, Heide's works are deeply rooted in her region. Nattheim is known for its unique natural phenomenon involving corals and sea urchins in sandstone. Heide's own research into species enables her to search for forms and creatures that will survive. Her choice of porcelain is deliberate, for in addition to being able to create fine details, it also gives her a clear sense of the aesthetics of Nattheim fossils.

Interview

What is a technique that you master?: I call my technique mixed media, because my work uses a variety of absorbent materials to carry porcelain. Among these are all non toxic materials, sponges, wool, all types of cellulose, and even roots. I have a lot of experience with these combinations.
What is the behaviour of these materials during firing?: To prevent cavities from forming in the ceramic after firing, I ensure that the ash melts to a glaze that holds the object together from the inside. My usual method is to dip the material in sodium silicate.
Is there something most people do not suspect about your work?: I usually sketch in advance and plan the finished form of most of my objects. But it also happens that my hands take on a life of their own and take me in directions that I had not intended. This always excites me.
What is one of the most memorable moments in your journey with porcelain?: I travelled to Japan for an artist residency, and there was a firing in a Noborigama kiln at the end of the residency. It was a very special experience throughout my stay there. All the way from digging up the raw materials ourselves to keeping the fire going all week long.

Heide Nonnenmacher is a master artisan: she began her career in 1986 and she started teaching in 1986