Hertha Hillfon: Innovative Ceramic Sculpture Pioneer in Sweden

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Hertha Maria Lillemor Hillfon, born Forsberg on June 2, 1921, in Säbrå parish, Ångermanland, was a transformative figure in Swedish ceramics and sculpture. Growing up as the fourth of fourteen children, her early life was marked by frequent relocations before her family settled in Stockholm. Hillfon’s artistic journey began at Edvin Ollers Art School in 1939 and continued at Edward Berggren’s Art School in 1941. She later refined her skills at the School of Art in Stockholm from 1953 to 1957, studying ceramics under the guidance of Edgar Böckman.

Artistic Development and Influences

Hillfon’s artistic career was shaped by her study trips to France, Italy, and Japan, which broadened her perspective and enriched her work with diverse influences. Her formal debut in 1958 at the Swedish Handicraft Association in Stockholm marked the beginning of a prolific career. Hillfon pioneered ceramic-free sculpture in Sweden, a distinction she shared with fellow artist Anders Bruno Liljefors. Her debut exhibition at Galleri Artek in Stockholm in 1959 was a critical success, setting the stage for her influential career.

Hertha Hillfon’ s sculpture of Astrid Lindgren
Hertha Hillfon’ s sculpture of Astrid Lindgren

Innovation and Legacy

Hillfon’s work was characterized by its departure from traditional ceramics, venturing into new, uncharted territories of sculptural expression. Ulf Hård af Segerstad noted that she had “ingested a new ceramic territory alongside the traditional, a more untried, perhaps a bit uncertain, but certainly exciting, the free, sculptural ceramics.” This innovative approach earned her widespread acclaim and numerous exhibitions in Sweden and internationally.

In 1962, Hillfon was awarded the prestigious Lunning Prize, further cementing her status as a leading art figure. She became a member of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in 1971 and was named a professor in 1993, highlighting her significant contributions to the field.

Major Works and Exhibitions

Hillfon’s work includes many sculptures and ceramic pieces, many of which are housed in prominent museums worldwide. She is represented at the National Museum and the Modern Museum in Stockholm, the Kyoto Museum, the Nordenfjeld Art Museum in Trondheim, the Graz Museum, and the Röhsska Museum in Gothenburg. Her notable works include a sculpture of beloved Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, exemplifying her ability to blend realism with artistic innovation.

A Selection of her Works

Personal Life and Legacy

Hillfon married architect and designer Gösta Hillfon, with whom she had two children, Curt and Maria. The couple lived and worked in Gösta’s family villa in Mälarhöjden, Stockholm, which was later expanded to include a studio house designed by Gösta. Hillfon continued to create and exhibit her work well into her later years, with her last show held at Waldemarsudde in 2008 at 87.

Hertha Hillfon passed away on October 25, 2013, in Hägersten, Stockholm. She left behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire artists and ceramicists today. Her contributions to ceramics and sculpture have cemented her place as a pivotal figure in Swedish art history.

Conclusion

Hertha Hillfon’s innovative approach to ceramics and sculpture has left an indelible mark on the art world. Her ability to transcend traditional boundaries and explore new forms of expression has inspired generations of artists. Her work, characterized by its bold experimentation and artistic integrity, remains a testament to her visionary spirit and enduring legacy.

Sources

Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing. https://amzn.to/3ElmSlL

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