Happening, Performance and Artefact – The Fire Sculpture of Nina Hole as Dynamic Act and Physical Object

The ceramic sculptures of Danish artist Nina Hole are a valuable testimony to the successful symbiosis between tradition and modernity. They are inspired by the spontaneity of Asian ceramic firing techniques, the emotionality of European expressionism and the ideas embedded in Josef Beuys’ “social sculptures”. She has gained worldwide recognition for her monumental ceramic fire sculptures. Often performed with the help of a large number of assistants, these intricately constructed kiln-sculptures are an extraordinary experience for participants and viewers alike. And when the performance is over, the finished ceramic sculpture, hardened by the process of high-temperature firing, remains as a witness and material object-sign, enclosing a memory of the event.