BEN AND NADRALI CERAMICS
Ben and Nadrali, the creators of pottery dinnerware, say they want to bring “beauty to function” with their many pieces. When you take a look at their work, this is definitely true.

Taking inspiration from their travels, rich hues reminiscent of the ocean dominate their crockery promoting a sense of calm and tranqulity. Shades of blue and earthy, natural colours are a regular feature and every piece is unique as it is hand-thrown by the couple.

They use mixed clay bodies made up of mineral substances, blend layers of glaze to add depth and to create the different shades, and incorporate wood ash into their art which really brings it to life and sets it apart from mass produced pieces. The finished ceramics, although beautiful, must have a function so they need to be high quality and durable, something Ben and Nadrali says comes from firing to stoneware temperature. (Stoneware is generally fired to higher temperatures of 1200°C to 1300°C and this means the clay fuses and becomes strong and impervious to water.)

At the workshops, potters receive 2kg of smooth clay, and from this, they can either create their own piece or alternatively, they can have a pre fired cup, bowl or tile to paint. Ben and Nadrali say people with little or lots of experience are welcome, as all you need is your imagination. Workshops on offer include pot and tile painting and handling and working with raw clay.

To find out more, email benandnadraliceramics@outlook.com or head to benandnadraliceramics.com

Words: Lucy Mayer