Andre Hess

Andre Hess was born in Cape Town, South Africa, in 1961 and has been working in the UK since 1991. He initially trained as a veterinary surgeon at the University of Pretoria, qualifying in 1985, before beginning his ceramics training in 1986 under David May and Birgit Schrumpf. He later studied Art History with the Open University, graduating with First Class Honours.

Andre’s work explores abstract forms and the relationship between clay, making and meaning. His practice is rooted in personal history, including his experience of growing up under Apartheid, when access to nature and the landscape was restricted according to race. His relationship with nature, memory and wilderness continues to inform his work, connecting story and ethics with the aesthetic.

Andre considers the handling of the raw material central to his practice. He works with techniques and surface treatments including slips, oxides and glazes, using them to develop what is already present in the clay. He is also conscious of the environmental impact of making, and seeks to use as few materials and firings as possible.

His work has been exhibited extensively in the UK and internationally and is held in collections including the National Gallery in Cape Town and the University of Pretoria. Andre also writes about ceramics for Ceramic Review.

Andre is a Fellow of the Craft Potters Association.