Discover the Maker

Hey there, I'm Valeria, the creative force behind Ceramic Essence. With a passion for ceramics that spans over a decade, I've honed my skills and techniques to bring you unique, vibrant, and whimsical ceramic pieces. Originating in the lively city of Cape Town, South Africa, my ceramic journey really took off during my time in Argentina, where I sought a personal connection through pottery classes. This led me to further my interest and studies igniting a deep-seated love for clay. After returning to Cape Town, Ceramic Essence blossomed from a personal passion, making pieces for my own enjoyment, to a communal haven, where friends could lose themselves in the therapeutic art of clay. What began as a simple pastime, eventually led me to assume the role of manager and instructor at the lovely Clay Hands pottery studio.

My work is a fusion of hand building and wheel throwing, resulting in one-of-a-kind ceramics crafted from earthenware and stoneware clay. Each piece undergoes a 4 to 6-week creative journey, fired at temperatures reaching 1200 degrees in my cosy home-studio kiln. I firmly believe in the transformative power of ceramics and aim to inspire individuals from all walks of life to explore this enriching medium, bringing joy and elegance to their living spaces.