Contemporary ceramics artists on the wheel

Everyday objects become things of beauty in the hands of these independent ceramic artists and small-business owners from across the West.

Samantha Heligman / Settle Ceramics

An avid home cook, Heligman started expanding her Austin, Texas-based ceramics line by creating pieces that were missing in her own kitchen. “I needed dishware, so I started making plates,” she says. “I needed mugs, so I made mugs. It really just evolved organically that way.”But in Heligman’s view, her pottery isn’t just about utility. It’s about crafting future heirlooms. “In most archaeological digs, the first thing they find where they know humans have been, other than working tools, is ceramic shards,” she says. “So it’s this idea that I’m making something that is basically going to end up being a piece of history.” As someone whose happiest memories involve watching her mother and grandmother cook together, Heligman strives to make untrendy kitchen goods that will be happily accepted from generation to generation. To that end, she leans toward simple styles and earth-toned glazes. “I want to make something that isn’t going to be just thrown away or given to a thrift shop in a couple of years,” she says. “I want it to be timeless.”

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Minimalist makers: ceramics

I’m starting the week with the first in a brand-new series focusing on independent, minimalist-style makers across a range of different categories. It’s something that I’ve wanted to do for a while now: there are so many talented people whose work I’d like to showcase, and I know many of you are always on the lookout for unique pieces to add the perfect finishing touches to your home. Over the coming months I’ll cover everything from art to wood-turning, but first up is ceramics – something I freely admit to having a bit of an addiction to!

Over time I’ve built up quite a collection of vases, tableware and decorative objects, and I love the tactile, imperfect nature of items made from clay. Knowing that most were lovingly crafted by hand makes them all the more special, and they truly are pieces with stories to tell. I’ve rounded up 10 of my favourite ceramicists below – some of whom I’ve known for years, others more recent discoveries who I’ve stumbled across via Instagram or Pinterest. Their work each has its own character and inspirations, but they all share the same commitment to making understated and timeless objects that can be treasured for decades to come. I hope their be