Mel Bolen

“I have lived in the country for thirty five years and always find myself, outside in the trees or on the Prairie feasting on the natural beauty. I am inspired by the lichen, textures, surfaces and constantly changing colors under the incredible light that illuminates this part of the world.”

Bolen was always experimenting with technique and form in order to breathe new life into his work. In his later years, his work has exhibited a contemplative elegance with simple form and the wonderfully subtle effects of the salt fired kiln. The kiln is fired to white heat (2400 f) so the clay itself is just on the verge of melting. It is a volatile process, and Bolen said that working with it is a little like walking the edge of a razor blade. “It’s the best way to be. I found that firing the wood kiln and the salt kiln and to a lesser degree the reduction kiln… you’re rewarded with pieces on that edge. If you try to be safe or duplicate, you’re going to get a medium piece out of it. Where you’re rewarded is by pushing, stretching, loosing pieces: Yes, but getting those pieces that make it through to that other side.”

Melvin Carl Bolen, a founding member of the Saskatchewan Craft Council and a master potter whose creativity touched countless lives. Mel passed gently on September 13, 2024, surrounded by family in a serene greenspace at their cherished Ranchita. His legacy will continue to inspire us all.