Bespoke Ceramic Commissions
Art-led functional ceramics & sculptural art objects
At Nika Atelier, bespoke ceramic pieces are created through a slow, considered collaboration.
I welcome a limited number of ceramic commissions. Each commissioned piece is created in my distinctive style and carries the visual language and artistic identity that defines my work.
While I am happy to receive inspiration images, ideas, or conceptual direction, I do not replicate or copy the work of other artists. These references help guide the mood, theme, or function of a piece, but the final design will always be interpreted through my own creative process.
This approach ensures that every commission remains a unique artwork that aligns with the aesthetic and philosophy of Nika Atelier, while still reflecting the spirit of the client’s vision.
Time Frame
- 4-6 Weeks for Small Orders
- 6-9 Weeks for Bigger Orders
- Fine Art & Large Sculptural pieces may exceed these time frames
Clay is an unpredictable medium and therefore requires leniency within the creation process.
The Process
Each commissioned piece is carefully developed through a considered studio process. Clay is a slow and responsive material, and every stage is given the time it needs to ensure quality, stability, and longevity.
1. Idea Discussion & Inspiration
We begin with a conversation about your idea, the purpose of the piece, and the atmosphere or feeling you would like it to convey. You are welcome to share inspiration images, references, or themes. These help guide the direction of the piece, while the final design will always be interpreted through my artistic style and approach.
2. Concept Sketches
Based on our discussion, I develop preliminary sketches that explore form, proportions, and decorative elements. This stage allows us to refine the concept before moving into production.
3. Material & Size Planning
Once the design direction is confirmed, I plan the practical aspects of the piece. This includes determining the required amount of clay, glaze considerations, structural thickness, and final sizing. Ceramic pieces also shrink during firing, so dimensions are carefully calculated to achieve the desired final scale.
4. Structural Testing & Feasibility
If a design includes complex forms, sculptural elements, or mixed techniques, I assess the stability of the concept. This may involve small tests to ensure the piece can be built, fired, and used safely.
5. Handbuilding the Piece
The final work is then created by hand in the studio using carefully measured clay. At this stage the form, surface, and sculptural details are developed.
6. Drying Period
After forming, the piece must dry slowly and evenly to prevent warping or cracking. Depending on the size and thickness of the work, this stage can take several days to a few weeks.
7. Bisque Firing
Once fully dry, the piece undergoes its first firing in the kiln, known as the bisque firing. This process strengthens the clay body and prepares the surface to receive glaze.
8. Glaze Application
Glazes are applied through brushing, pouring, or painting techniques depending on the design. This stage brings colour, texture, and depth to the finished piece.
9. Glaze Firing
The piece is fired a second time in the kiln at high temperatures. During this firing, the glaze melts and fuses permanently with the clay, creating the final surface.
10. Packaging & Courier Delivery
After cooling and quality checks, the piece is carefully wrapped using protective packaging materials to ensure safe transport. It is then prepared for courier delivery to its new home.
Because handmade ceramics require multiple stages of drying and firing, commissions typically take several weeks to complete. This thoughtful process ensures that every piece is durable, unique, and made to last. Clay is also a very unpredictable medium to work with, this cracks and breaks may further delay production time.