The Artist

Maja Lionello (b. 1994, Rome, Italy) is a figurative sculptor based in Vancouver, Canada. Working primarily with porcelain clay, she is known for her portrait sculptures that explore the intersection of figurative art and functional ceramics.

Maja’s artistic path began with a passion for drawing, but it was an unexpected injury in 2015—a broken right hand—that led her to sculpture. What began as a form of physical rehabilitation soon evolved into a profound spiritual and psychological journey, one that continues to inspire and drive her creative practice. Sculpture became not only a means of healing but also a way to connect with her audience on a deeper emotional level.

Education History

Self-Taught Artist - Specialized in hand-building ceramics, mold-making, and slip-casting techniques

Learned specific techniques from prominent local artists in vancouver, including:

  • Glazing Ceramics - Georgina Lohan

  • Mold Making - Mikhail Pertsev

Exhibition History

Group Exhibitions:

2024: Group Exhibition, The Phoenix Gallery, Vancouver, BC, Canada

2018: Group Exhibition, Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens, Auditorium, Brisbane Sculpture Festival, Brisbane, QLD, Australia

Professional Experience

Memberships:

2018-2019: Member, Sculptors Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia

Skills:

  • Expert in hand-building ceramics, including large-scale sculptures

  • Advanced Proficiency in mold-making and slip-casting techniques

  • Extensive experience in glazing ceramics

  • Strong knowledge of ceramic firing processes

Reaching - Figure Study | Porcelain | 2019 | “12 x 7 x 4