Almost, Between

Marlize Myburgh, Almost, Between
Image courtesy of the artist.

Marlize Myburgh

Almost, Between (detail) 2026

Midfire clay and copper
Oxides, engobes and matte glazes
Multiple pieces: 25 x 25 x 25 cm overall

About the Artwork

Almost, Between investigates the tension between proximity and restraint through ceramic sculpture. Two forms—one larger, one smaller—curve toward each other, suspended in a moment of near contact. Layered, scale‑like surfaces reflect growth, protection and the accumulation of time through repeated gesture, while small copper accents mark points of anticipated connection that remain unresolved. Grounded in material exploration and organic abstraction, the work embodies my emerging practice of examining relational spaces: how memories of connection are carried in form and surface, and how closeness can be sustained without touch, held in quiet suspension.

About the Artist

Marlize Myburgh is a ceramic and mixed-media artist living and working in Naarm/Melbourne. Originally from South Africa, her practice explores the capacity of clay for retention and transformation through sculptural forms, material processes and organic structures. Marlize holds a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art (Jewellery Design and Metal Technique) from Stellenbosch University, and an Advanced Diploma of Engineering (Jewellery Design) and Diploma of Arts (Ceramics) from Box Hill Institute, Melbourne.

Marlize has undertaken artist residencies at Cité Internationale des Arts in Paris, Salamanca Arts Centre in Hobart, and Faenza Art Ceramic Centre in Italy. Her work has been exhibited nationally at venues including Montsalvat, Manly Art Gallery & Museum, and Gallery Lowe and Lee. Recent accolades include Winner of the Korowa Ceramic Art Prize (Sculpture Category) (2026); the Ruth Petersen Award (2025), Highly Commended at the Deakin University Contemporary Small Sculpture Award (2025); and the Sydney Teapot Show Natural World Award (2024).