Full Biography
Maureen Visagé is a South African artist, based in Cape Town.
Her sculptures, in ceramic and bronze, are reminiscent of European porcelain figurines, but with a hand built quality and a quirky twist. Finding inspiration in fairy-tales, various religious and mythical themes, and adding African elements she creates work that is fun, strongly feminine and honours both her European and African roots.
Born in Pretoria, Maureen attended the Pretoria Art, Music and Ballet School (Pro Arte), with puppetry and painting as chosen subjects. Upon graduating in 1990, she moved to Cape Town to study actuarial science.
After qualifying as an actuary in 1998, and working in London, she returned to Cape Town in 2000.
Needing a creative outlet she joined a ceramic studio where she fell in love with clay. From 2011 creating art became her full time focus.
“I find immense joy in working in this ancient medium, building each unique piece by hand. I love the unpredictability of the outcome and the joy of opening the fired kiln, revealing the jewels inside.
My work is fun and light-hearted, with the objective of making the viewer feel good.”
Exhibitions:
Emerging Artists Development Trust exhibition V&A Waterfront (2019)
SCULPT X – Melrose Arch (2019)
Southern Guild – STILL LIFE (2015)
Maison et Objet (September 2014)
Studio Group Exhibitions (2000 to 2007),
B art ceramic exhibitions (2004 and 2006),
CSA annual regional exhibitions (2009 and 2012),
Africa Nova “In Bloom” exhibition (2012)
Africa Nova “Seeking Eden” exhibition (2014)
Kalkbay Modern Sculpture and Ceramics exhibition (Annually from 2011 to date),
Pottershop ceramic exhibition (2011,2012),
Annual Franschoek Ceramic Festival- at EBONY (2012 to date),
CCDI Handmade Collection Exhibition (2013)
Design Indaba (2013 and 2014 and 2015),
Irma Stern “In Good Company” exhibition (2013),
Women in Clay – Art in the Forest (2013 and 2014),
Wildlife Exhibition – The Cape Gallery (2013)
The Art Connection – Kaleidoscope (2014)