About Martin Bartholomae
Martin finally decided to pursue his desire to create full time. The combination of working with his hands, kneading and throwing clay, the mathematical precision and alchemy of developing his own glazes, and the practicality of designing functional homeware suits his character perfectly. As a quiet, skilled and sound-sensitive person who thrives in the solitude of a small self-built studio in the countryside, he chose not to work on a noisy electric wheel and instead built himself a silent Japanese kick wheel. This choice meant two things. Firstly, he had to master a more demanding way of throwing and embrace a slower pace of making, together with the inevitable wabi-sabi aesthetic of clay fashioned on a kick wheel. Secondly, it allowed him to listen to music whilst throwing.
Martin is entirely self-taught, continually refining and expanding his practice. While functional pottery remains at the heart of his work, his creative journey has naturally grown to include sculptural pieces and ceramic wall art. His expression of form, colour and texture is both refined and exploratory.
Although inspired by Asian and Japanese traditions, Martin’s work is deeply rooted in the earthy colours, textures and landscapes of Africa.
Born and raised in Germany, Martin first visited South Africa in 2006, only to return to his country of birth, pack up his life and move to Africa. He spent years exploring the country, traversing ancient mountains and breathtaking coastlines before eventually settling in the countryside, where he now lives, works and creates. He is the father of two sons who share his love of making and creating.
Inspired by Japanese wood-fired pottery, Martin had long dreamed of building a kiln of his own. During the years of widespread electricity shortages in South Africa, he finally turned that dream into reality.
Learning the demanding craft of wood firing taught him patience and a deep respect for the unique character that only fire can leave behind.
Although he continues to use both electric and wood firing, the rhythm and unpredictability of the wood-fired process remain central to his work.
