Mollie Schollum stands out for her ability to transform clay into a fusion of functionality and vibrant sculptural works. Her journey is one of passion, creativity, and an unrelenting pursuit of pushing the boundaries of her chosen medium. In this article, we explore Mollie's fascinating career and her distinctive contributions to the art of ceramics.
The Start of Mollie’s Clay Journey
When Mollie first encountered clay in 2015, she became enamored with it because of its versatility. The unpredictable nature of clay and its potential for creation sparked her imagination, and there was no turning back. Like many artists, Mollie found her initial experiences with clay to be transformative, offering endless possibilities and new avenues for exploration.
In 2021, Mollie made the decision to take her passion to the next level by relocating to Dunedin to study ceramics at the prestigious Dunedin School of Art. Here, she refined her skills, learning new techniques, and pushing the boundaries of what she could create with her hands and imagination.
Exploring Nature Through Art
One of the most striking elements of Mollie Schollum’s work is her deep connection to the natural world. She creates everything from small pinch bowls to larger sculptural pieces using slabs or coils of clay. To add texture and interest, she often presses flowers and leaves into the raw clay. These elements burn away in the first firing, leaving behind an impression that she then hand-paints. After glazing and a second firing, she often applies gold for a third firing. Each small bowl represents hours of meticulous work, and no two pieces are ever identical.
Whether it’s the subtle texture of a leaf or the delicate petals of a flower, Mollie’s pieces evoke a sense of harmony between the earth and the artistic process. These natural imprints not only add texture and visual appeal but also capture moments in time, preserving the beauty of nature in a form that lasts.
The Magic of Soda Firing and Glaze Experiments
Mollie’s fascination with glaze is a key feature of her artistic practice. Glaze, the glassy coating applied to ceramics, is an essential part of how her pieces come to life. She’s particularly known for experimenting with different glaze processes, pushing the limits of what’s possible.
A notable technique Mollie uses is soda firing. This process involves introducing soda ash into the kiln during firing, which reacts with the surface of the clay to create beautiful, unpredictable patterns. The resulting texture and colours add depth and character to her work, making each piece entirely unique.
Mollie is not afraid to take risks, often firing her pieces multiple times to achieve the right balance of glaze and texture. This relentless pursuit of perfection and her willingness to embrace the unknown is what sets her work apart in the world of ceramics.
Accolades and Recognition
Mollie Schollum’s talent and hard work have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she was named a finalist in two highly regarded ceramic awards: the Quarry Ceramic Awards and the Portage Ceramic Awards. Both awards celebrate excellence in ceramics and being a finalist is a mark of her growing influence in the art world.
Additionally, Mollie was awarded the Otago Potters Group Sculpture award in 2023, further cementing her status as one of New Zealand’s most promising ceramic artists. These accolades are not just a reflection of her skill but also her dedication to evolving as an artist and constantly challenging herself to explore new ideas.
Connecting with Audiences
For Mollie, the joy of making art is not just in the creation but in how people connect with her pieces. Whether it’s a small bowl imprinted with a delicate leaf or a bold, colourful sculpture, Mollie’s work resonates with people on a personal level. Her pieces invite viewers to pause and reflect, to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and to consider the many possibilities of art.
This connection is especially evident in the way her work is received in exhibitions and through her social media presence. Mollie often shares her creative process on Instagram (@mollieschollum_ceramics), giving followers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes of her studio and her day-to-day life as a ceramic artist. Her transparency and willingness to share her journey have helped her build a loyal audience who appreciate both the artist and her work.
Where to Find Mollie Schollum’s Work
Mollie’s ceramics can be found in various galleries across New Zealand, and she regularly participates in exhibitions showcasing her latest pieces. If you’re keen to see her work in person or purchase one of her unique creations, you can also explore her collection online at Wonder Room.
Whether you’re a collector of fine art or simply someone who appreciates handmade, functional pieces, Mollie Schollum’s work is sure to inspire. Her dedication to her craft, her passion for experimentation, and her connection to the natural world all come together to create art that is as bold as it is beautiful.
Mollie Schollum Ceramic Artist
Mollie Schollum is a rising star in the New Zealand ceramics scene. Her journey from discovering clay in 2015 to becoming an award-winning artist in 2023 is a testament to her passion and dedication. Mollie’s work is a bold expression of creativity, blending function with art, nature with experimentation, and tradition with innovation.
If you’re looking to add a piece of New Zealand’s vibrant ceramic artistry to your collection, Mollie Schollum’s work is a perfect choice. Her pieces are more than just objects—they are a celebration of artistry, nature, and the joy of making something truly unique.