Beyond Mass-Produced Decor: The Beauty of Locally Made Ceramics. Expert Tips from Perth Ceramicist Elvira Mckenzie
As an Interior Designer, I believe in the power of handcrafted elements to transform a space, moving beyond mass-produced decor to embrace the unique beauty of locally made ceramic pieces. Custom ceramics bring texture, character, and soul to any room, offering a blend of artistry and craftsmanship that mass-produced items simply can't replicate. Each piece tells a story, showcasing not only your style but also your support for local artisans and sustainable practices.
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with Elvira McKenzie, a talented ceramicist artist based in Perth, Western Australia. Elvira’s work is deeply influenced by the striking contrasts of colours, textures, and materials found in the abundant landscapes and coastal features of Western Australia. Her ceramics reflect the beauty and diversity of the region, with each piece offering a sense of place, artistry, and craftsmanship that’s both unique and meaningful.
The Deep Vase: Elvira Mckenzie Ceramics
Styling & Selections: Selene Interiors
Photography: Jenna French Photography
Interview and Expert Advice from Elvira of Elvira Mckenzie Ceramics:
What first inspired you to pursue ceramics, and what about this medium continues to captivate you today?
Ceramics was not something I even thought of doing, let alone having it as a business. Some years ago, I was looking for a vase for our house. After looking for some time and not being able to find what I liked, I decided to make my own. I signed up for wheel-throwing classes in TAFE. That was the very first time I touched clay. And as they say, the rest is history.
What captivates me the most? Hmmm… maybe that you think you know so much, but there more you learn the more you realise you do not know. Endless knowledge, just like anything in life. There is always room to grow and experiment. Every piece you make has its own set of challenges, surprises, and lessons. Endless exploration keeps it fresh and exciting. That is probably what made it so addictive to me. I got sucked into it, in a good way.
Ceramics involves a mix of artistry and technique. Can you walk us through your creative process, from the initial concept to the final piece?
The process usually starts with inspiration. This could come from nature, personal experiences, or even an abstract idea. Sometimes I might sketch out concepts or just think about the function and form of the piece—whether it is something purely decorative or functional. Once the idea is clear, I choose the clay body that will best suit the project. Different clays have different properties, so the choice depends on the look, texture, and function I want to achieve. The next step is creating the piece. This could involve hand-building or throwing on the wheel. I focus on the tactile relationship with the material, constantly adjusting as I work.
After the form is complete, the piece needs to dry slowly and evenly to avoid cracking. Once it is bone-dry, it's bisque-fired in the kiln, which transforms the clay into a hard, porous state that’s ready for glazing.
The next step is glazing. I apply glaze, which could be anything from simple transparent coatings to intricate layers of colour.
After glazing, the piece is fired again in the kiln at a higher temperature. This process fuses the glaze to the clay body and solidifies the final form. Depending on the type of clay and glaze, this firing can bring out different effects, like matte versus glossy finishes or vibrant colour changes.
After the final firing, I inspect every piece. I may do some final touch-ups like sanding rough edges, if needed. If it is a functional item, I will test it to ensure it is watertight.
Throughout this process, there is a lot of trial and error—sometimes the piece does not turn out how I envisioned it, and that’s part of the creative journey. It is all about experimenting and staying open to unexpected outcomes!
Do you have a favourite clay or material that you tend to gravitate towards? What makes it special to you?
My favourite clay is white raku from Keane Ceramics. I find this clay to be incredibly versatile, which is one of the reasons I love working with it. Whether I am creating large vases or crafting a small, delicate cup, this clay is adaptable to my every need. It is hard enough to hold its shape during the forming process, yet soft enough to mould into virtually any design I can imagine. What I appreciate most is how customizable it is in terms of thickness. Whether I want a lightweight, delicate vessel or a sturdier, more substantial piece, I can adjust the clay's thickness to suit the function and style I am aiming for. This control over the material allows me to create pieces that are not only beautiful but also practical.
Many ceramic pieces have unique textures and patterns. How do you achieve those intricate designs, and where do you draw inspiration from?
I am deeply inspired by nature, particularly the textures and patterns I encounter during our travels. We love going on road trips and adventures around our state. I use a combination of hand-building, carving, and glazing techniques that allow me to mimic the organic textures found in nature. Sometimes, I just experiment with textures. I love experimenting.
How do you approach glaze selection for your pieces? Is it more about the aesthetic, the functionality, or a balance of both?
It is a balance of both. Aesthetically, I consider how the glaze will interact with the form, texture and the colour of the clay. Some glazes bring out the details of a piece more, while others can add depth. Functionally, I think about the durability and whether the glaze is food-safe.
Resilience Vase
What are some of the most memorable pieces you have created, and what made them special or unique to you?
A particular client comes to my mind straight away. The client was a chef. We worked together for several years, and I made a variety of bowls, from medium to large sizes, and I mean, large, that he used in his retreat cooking. He served these delicious wholesome foods in the bowls. They all looked so amazing. People would always comment on his food and the ceramics he used for serving. Even now, people still tell him how they remember both the amazing meals and the ceramics he used. Food has a unique way of bringing people together. We gather around the table, sharing not only meals but also meaningful conversations. It is such a rewarding feeling to know that my pieces were part of those memorable experiences.
In your opinion, how can ceramics transform a space? Do you have any tips for incorporating ceramics into home décor or interior design?
I strongly believe that handmade pieces have more soul and add warmth and personal touch to any space, whether it is a decorative piece or functional. I think people should not be afraid to go for colours. Adding at least one colourful piece can elevate an area or be a focal point or a subtle accent.
There is often a conversation about the use of local versus imported materials in ceramics. What is your stance on supporting local suppliers, and how do you choose your materials?
We are quite fortunate here in Australia to have access to a variety of local clay. With some raw materials that I use for glazes, you might have limited options but still buy from a local supplier. I am quite lucky to have a kiln and wheel manufactured here in Australia. They are both old but very strong and durable.
What are some trends you have noticed in ceramic design, and how do you see your work fitting into or diverging from those trends?
I am not sure if I follow trends, I do not think I do. I make what I feel is natural to me. I am drawn to pieces that have more character and individuality. I like to embrace a sense of warmth and uniqueness, often through vibrant colours or shapes that reflect both functionality and artistry. My goal is to create pieces that feel timeless, ones that evoke emotion and connection no matter what trends may come and go.
Ceramics is often a deeply personal form of art. How does your style influence the types of pieces you create?
Ceramics is a deeply personal art form for me, and my style is very much influenced by my connection to the process. I tend to create pieces that feel organic and unique, often reflecting my love for nature, textures and subtle imperfections. I gravitate toward designs that blend functionality with artistry, aiming for pieces that feel both practical and emotionally resonant. The way I approach clay is intuitive—sometimes a piece will evolve in unexpected ways as I work with it, and that spontaneity is a big part of my style. I think my work often reflects a balance between structure and freedom, where each piece is crafted with intention, but still leaves room for the natural beauty of the material to shine through.
What is your perspective on using ceramics in functional pieces versus purely decorative art? Can a piece be both?
It can be both. I create a lot of pieces that double as functional and decorative. I would recommend people, if they want to use a particular piece for food, to check first if it is suitable for food and if the glaze is food-safe.
For people looking to add ceramics to their interior design, do you have any tips on selecting pieces that will complement a variety of styles?
It is essential to choose pieces that speak to you. Ceramics can add warmth and personality to any space. I strongly believe that small-batch handmade ceramics tell unique stories. They are not just objects; they embody connection and reflect values. Made with care and passion, these pieces add a special touch that enhances any style.
Looking ahead, what excites you about the future of ceramics? Are there any new techniques or concepts you are eager to explore in your work?
The opportunities are endless in ceramics. I am constantly exploring, growing and evolving and there is so much more I still want to create and push my boundaries.