Carla Sealey (Naked Clay Ceramics)

I initially trained as a scientist, graduating many years ago with a BSc in Geology and Chemistry. After 14 years as an environmental scientist I returned to University and went over to the dark side, graduating with a BA in Applied Art!

Geology and Chemistry are still the foundation of my creative skills.

I design and made a range of tableware and homeware in black stoneware and white porcelain under the name Naked Clay Ceramics. I also hand build work that speaks about something other than comfort and tactility.

Slab and coil building are the main processes I use to create vessels that reference pre colonial art, architecture and the clay making traditions of the African continent.

My signature style involves minimal glaze on the outside of vessels, offering a tactile and immediate connection to the fired clay. Minimal mark making is also a feature and might include brush marks of porcelain slip, layering glazes to produce intense colour or adding printed word.

I work from my studio on an arable farm in Colesden, Bedfordshire.