Photo of Hana Karim by Marc Waldrow

The ceramics crafted by Hana Karim are the antithesis to mass production. Because each piece is handmade and shaped without being templated, there’s a feeling of spontaneity in Hana’s work. Perfection is found in apparent imperfections, from misshapen edges to drips of glaze and visible brush strokes.

Handcrafted ceramic plates and serving platters all bear the designer’s distinctive touch. The eccentricity of their shapes feels rustic and wholly reflective of the irregularity of nature. You’ll never get a totally ‘matching’ set, but any collection of Hana’s work feels congruent. The rims and backs of each piece remain unglazed to reveal the character of the clay in contrast to the vibrancy of the glazed fronts. The colour palette celebrates celestial blues merging into greens, alongside earthy pinks and browns. Even the mineral glint of a metallic shade appears from time to time.

Hana’s work is a direct reflection of her sense of the place planet Earth inhabits in time and space. She appreciates the sense of direct connection with her ancient ancestors when she handles clay and shapes her ceramics. These are pieces that are intended to be used. They’re beautiful centrepieces, yes, but they can also be put in the dishwasher or microwave.