Born in Hanover in 1907 Hedwig Bollhagen left an enduring legacy. She became a renowned German ceramicist. She co-founded the HB Workshops for Ceramics.
Hedwig Bollhagen grew up here in Hanover. She attended a secondary school for girls. Her journey into ceramics began with an internship in Groβalmerode in 1924. She then studied at the State Art Academy in Kassel. She also attended the Fachschule Hӧhr-Grenzhausen. There she honed her skills under Eduard Berdel and Hermann Bollenbach.
From 1927 to 1931, Hedwig Bollhagen worked at the Steingutfabriken Velten-Vordamm. She served as a designer and head of the painting department. The Great Depression led to the factory’s closure. This prompted her to travel and work in various ceramic workshops.
In 1934, Hedwig Bollhagen co-founded the HB Workshops for Ceramics in Velten. She received support from Heinrich Schild. Other ceramists like Margarete Heymann and Nora Herz also participated. Her workshop became known for innovative designs. It also gained recognition for its commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Hedwig Bollhagen’s ceramics featured simplicity and timelessness. They uniquely combined traditional and Bauhaus aesthetics. She created everyday crockery. These pieces blended peasant tradition with contemporary design. Her work achieved international fame. It stood as a testament to her dedication.
Hedwig Bollhagen’s simple, timeless designs often combined rural traditions. They also featured Bauhaus aesthetics. She famously said: “Art? Oh yes, that’s what some people call it. I make plates, cups and jugs.” She quipped: “They’re just pots.”
She passed her master exam in 1939. She became a ceramics master. She then shielded her business from the German Labour Front. After World War II, she assumed sole management of the HB Workshops.
Even after nationalization in 1972, Hedwig Bollhagen remained artistic director. She continued working until shortly before her death. Hedwig Bollhagen died in 2001. She was 93. She was buried here in Hanover.
Even after her death, Hedwig Bollhagen’s ceramic company continues to operate. Her legacy lives on. The Hedwig Bollhagen Foundation preserves her artistic contributions.
Today we remember Hedwig Bollhagen. She was a master ceramicist. Her work beautifully combined form and function. She left an unforgettable mark on the world of ceramics.