German design rarely makes it onto the global market? Far from it! Even though Germany is better known for technology and machinery, art also has a good reputation. This is proven by the many exhibitions in Berlin and famous art galleries in the city. And Germany is also a leader in the field of ceramics . This is mainly thanks to one famous designer: Hewig Bollhagen. Her HB workshops for ceramics in Marwitz near Berlin are an institution of German design.
“The Art of Simplicity”
Hedwig Bollhagen is considered one of the most important ceramicists of the 20th century. Until the ripe old age of 93 , she designed new shapes and decorations that influenced the entire world. Today, her designs can be found not only in German kitchens, but also in museums such as the MoMA in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
She pursued a philosophy closely related to the Bauhaus idea: her designs are timeless thanks to their clear forms. At the same time, she created high-quality, handmade ceramics for everyday use that are nevertheless affordable for many. Her geometric patterns and incised decorations in blue, white, yellow, and black are world-famous.
Painting ceramics like the pros
The HB workshops for ceramics are located just outside Berlin, in Marwitz to be precise. Even though the artist passed away in 2001, her legacy lives on. Even today, the pieces are still shaped, painted, and glazed by hand. It often takes over 60 steps to make a single cup. You can find insights into the entire range on the website !
The entire complex is a listed building and is a living museum of industrial culture. Here you can not only purchase ceramics directly, but also watch the workers at their craft. The HB-Werkstätten für Keramik offers various guided tours and team events . Come and paint ceramics, switch off and learn how this art form came about. Velten is also home to the Hedwig Bollhagen Museum, which documents her life’s work.