Introducing the very talented Artisan, Ember Earth Ceramics. Tan loves to shape functional pottery through wheel-throwing and hand-building in NSW.
Find out why Tan started creating and why they are so passionate about the value of handmade.
Tell us about your creations and your handmade process.
I am a potter who transforms and shapes clay through wheel-throwing and hand-building. I enjoy working with natural and white-speckled clays because they create an earthy, organic feel while preserving the raw beauty of the material.
My work focuses on functional pottery, pieces designed to be used and enjoyed every day. Whether placed in the kitchen, bedroom or living room, each handmade creation adds character to a space.
Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a handmade artist.
Creativity and making things with my hands have always been part of who I am. I have explored different creative practices, including making beeswax wraps, candles and natural body scrubs. When I discovered pottery around two years ago, it felt like a natural extension of my creative journey.
I loved shaping clay and watching it transform into something beautiful and functional.
I am a radiographer most of the week, and pottery gives me a meaningful space to nurture my creativity and imagination outside of my clinical work. I enjoy being present in the moment, working mindfully with the clay and allowing myself the freedom to explore different forms and ideas. There is something special about slowing down, connecting with my hands and watching a piece develop naturally.
What is your inspiration or where do you find inspiration?
As well as the natural world, my clay work is inspired by the idea of rituals and mindful moments. Whether it is a kitchen ritual using one of my garlic graters or a peaceful pause with an incense burner, I enjoy creating pieces that encourage people to slow down and appreciate everyday moments. The making process is also a ritual for me. Each piece is created mindfully, with time and intention, and I hope it brings that same sense of calm to the person who uses it.
My Indian heritage is another important source of inspiration. Pottery is a specialised craft in India and allows for sustainability within the country. You may notice Indian-inspired patterns in some of my pieces. This is created by using carved wooden stamps traditionally used for block printing on fabric. Incorporating this into my pottery allows me to weave my cultural heritage into my work and feel connected to my roots.
Where did you learn your craft?
I learnt my craft through 12 months of pottery lessons at a local studio. More space in my life was created with both of my children being at school, so I was able to reconnect with my creativity and explore something for myself. A special thank you to Steph from Tasman Clayworks in Windsor, who was my teacher and my pottery mother.
Steph gave me one of the greatest lessons of all: to practise imperfection. That lesson continues to shape the way I work with clay. I am not fully committed to a piece until it has made it through the final glaze firing, and even then, it may not turn out exactly as I imagined. Pottery has taught me to let go, accept the unexpected and appreciate the beauty found in imperfection. There is a great level of authenticity in that.
Why is handmade artistry so important to you?
Handmade artistry is important to me because, when you purchase a handmade piece, you are supporting someone's creativity and passion. Creativity inspires imagination, and imagination is limitless. Giving an artist the opportunity to keep exploring is truly priceless.
Every handmade item is created with intention, love and soul. You can feel the time, care and authenticity in each piece. This creates a special connection between the maker and the person who brings it into their home.
Tan is a much loved member of the MadeIt Collective, sharing new creations as they are released. If you haven't connected with Ember Earth Ceramics, take a look at the full range today.
