CHARLOTTE MCLEISH

East London based ceramicist Charlotte McLeish worked in her family’s jewellery business as a goldsmith before studying ceramics at Brighton. She went on to receive her BA in Ceramic Design from Central St Martins in 2013 and was selected to exhibit at London Design Festival following her graduation. Her interest in antiques and historical objects was sparked whilst working at a National Trust House. She takes her inspiration from the Ancient Greek and Egyptian ceramics on display in the V&A and British Museum, which she visits regularly to sketch and take notes to later refer to whilst working. 

Charlotte’s characterful stoneware pieces are made with a combination of five different clay bases, hand-built through pinching and coiling techniques. Charlotte’s black, brown slips and washes are made with organic materials, such as sand and seaweed, collected during walks and travels and connecting each piece with places she has visited. The application of layers of these slips, which are adorned with differing amounts of oxides, over white glazes, creates a textured finish and a sense of movement through accidental crackling effects.