I make vessels specializing in the Nerikomi technique. “Nerikomi” is one of the ceramic techniques using coloured clay. I usually mix the original clay and pigments to make coloured clay. The coloured clay is layered and rounded to create parts that have the same pattern wherever they are cut, like millefiori glass. These clay parts are combined to make a single plate, then formed into the shape of a vessel.
The prominent characteristics of this method are that the same pattern appears on the surface and the reverse side and that the design fluctuates during the process of forming the vessel, creating a unique atmosphere.
Because of geography, I often use local Kenyan clay, however, I also use semi-porcelain clay from Japan and UK.
Process of my work
Works from Kenyan clay
I make my clay from the soil at the foot of Mount Kenya. Vessels made from Kenyan clay have a unique texture.
Works from semi-porcelain
I also make pieces from Japanese and UK’s semi-porcelain.