Kleyn Ceramics

I'm Brit, and it's my hands that make Kleyn Ceramics. I've always dabbled in art and all things creative, but I was actually a journalist and TV news reader when I got into pottery three (or so) years ago. I left the "dream job" to start a family, and found myself with a little more time in pregnancy to pursue my passion for ceramics. I'm VERY lucky that one of my best friends owns an incredible pottery studio (Our Space!), so this is how I got into the craft, and continue to expand my skills postpartum. Somehow, I now find myself mum to a busy 18-month-old, still writing part-time but also with enough work to pursue Kleyn Ceramics a few days a week. Very grateful!

I started on the wheel, but fell in love with hand building when I was pregnant with Flo. I also love to paint, and that's probably why underglaze has become such a big part of my practice. I still love creating functional pieces for my customers who want an affordable piece of art they can use, but sculptural work REALLY fills the cup (pardon the pun!). Whether it's decorating my ceramic handbags or writing with my signature font, there's nothing better than when the design just pops in that final firing — that being said, my toxic trait is "testing" glazes, designs, or techniques on the final product. As a result, there's a lot of emotion — highs and lows — opening the kiln after a glaze fire. I've always said I create for people who appreciate art that isn't created to be taken too seriously. I'm inspired by beautiful things in my life, and the idea for a piece is often sparked by the simple thought about an everyday item: "I wonder if I could make that out of clay."

The more you can learn about clay, the better! My hand building improves from the intricacies I pick up on the wheel (and vice versa!). Recently, I've been learning how to create glazes, and this has taught me more about my underglazing practice. Also, seek out the people you admire, and learn from as many "teachers" as possible. Ask questions of every mistake you make (and there will be lots!). As heartbreaking as it can be, every failed glaze and cracked piece has taught me something.

One of the first ceramic bags I ever made was my PJohnson tote, which is now housed in the designer's Brisbane showroom (a pinch-me moment!). I love how the ceramic version is a playful replica of the original — the patches (in Kiwi Underglaze, of course!) turned out to be the perfect touch. Recently, I've also been entrusted with creating clay replicas of the iconic "Briwok" jewelry box and the Raes on Wategoes gift bag. The final product of both far exceeded even my own expectations.

See more of Brittney's work on Instagram! 💚