Maker’s Story
Brutes Ceramics is a London-based small batch ceramics studio. Inspired by textured finishes and a brutalist aesthetic, each ergonomic piece is design and handmade by Brutes founder Emma de Clerq magazine-editor-turned-ceramicist in her London studio.
Emma worked as a magazine editor for a long time and playing with clay was the perfect antidote to all that screen time. Taking on the odd order here and there and eventually she had enough work coming in to be able to turn her hobby into a full-time vocation.
“I don’t do much sketching, I find the best way for me to try out ideas is by kind of scrapbooking with clay – working with off-cuts and making little collages and maquettes. It kind of feels like constructing a puzzle, and the hope is that every now and then you hit that sweet spot between something that feels both intentional and effortless.”
After an invitation from a friend to join an evening pottery session at Hackey City Farm, a unique setting which inspires children and adults to participate in various courses and workshops in the heart of London. Soon after with a sense of vigour and excitement Emma set up Clay Collective with a group of like minded friends. Funding all the studio equipment through running workshops and as a group they have been lucky enough to be offered some amazing on-site projects at places like Tate Modern and Somerset House.
Studio images courtesy of Brutes Ceramics.
