Field work - in the footsteps of Gertrud Kudielka.

During the winter and spring of 2022, Malene Hartmann Rasmussen was invited by the Bornholm Museum to work and live at Hjorths Fabrik.

The focal point of the work stay at Hjorths Fabrik was, among other things, the Bornholm ceramics factories which over the years have produced a sea of animal figures; from Hjorth's own Gertrud Kudielka's folk art-inspired animals, over Hans Ancher Wolfsen's fantastically powerful octopuses for Søholm, to Knud Basse's cute playful bear cubs. Therefore, it was natural that the animal should be the focal point of Malene Hartmann Rasmussen's artist residency at Hjorths Fabrik.

In addition to seeking inspiration in the factory's collection, Malene visited the Agricultural Museum - Melstedgård weekly to do animal studies in the field. As the months passed and winter turned to spring, buds turned into leaves and flowers.

Manager of Hjorths Fabrik Karina Skibby turned a series of jars in a beautiful work style, based on Malene's own designs, which were subsequently used as a canvas for a series of works inspired by the garden at Hjorths Keramikfabrik.

The exhibition can be seen until 31 August at Hjorths Fabrik in Rønne.

After entrance, there is access to the more than 150-year-old Bornholm ceramics factory, which still produces stoneware according to original principles. We have ongoing activities in the ceramics workshop throughout the year. We talk about the work at the factory out in the garden every Saturday at 11 a.m. During the high season, 1 June to 31 August, every day at 11 and at 14.

Photographer: Sylvain Deleu