Biography
of Ursula Corleis
1944 born in Buxtehude, Germany 1964-72 Art Academy and University in Hamburg 1972-82 teaching Visual Communication in a highschool 1982 begins working in sculpure
Ursula Corleis was born in Buxtehude, Germany, in 1944.
She studied German literature, art and visual communications, receiving diplomas from both Hamburg's University and Art Academy. She taught high school for twelve years.
In the early 'eighties, she and her husband Herbert Hoffmann bought an abandoned farm in Radda in Chianti and moved to Italy. Her artistic creativity changed entirely in this new environment.
In the early 'nineties she began sculpting in stone and alabaster, these media offering her new means for self expression. Her approach to painting changed once again and continues to do so.
Over the last forty years she has had various personal exhibitions in Italy and Germany. Her works have been acquired by public and private collections in Europe, North America, Canada and Australia.
Today
Until the end of her life, Ursula continued to express her creativity in different artistic forms and to take
care of the place that had hosted her for 40 years. With pride, courage and full awareness, she chose to
remain in Istine despite the various difficulties she encountered. She was proud of her decision to grow
old and leave her earthly life in their beloved Tuscany.
In the last seven years of her life, she formed a special bond with her new neighbor, Elena, who currently
guards her studio and home.
Ursula passed away on 28 March 2022 at the hospital in Siena. Her ashes were scattered in Istine by friends and relatives, who celebrated her with readings, songs, flowers and a joyful celebration, all accompanied by a large rainbow.
