I create unique pieces of functional ceramic art; transforming a dirty, unsightly, neglected zone into one which breathes joy into the space around it.

“Something functional ought not to be unnecessarily ugly or purely utilitarian, when beauty and purpose can coexist.”

Gemma Saleh, Called to Clay.

I saw plastic drain covers—unsightly, ill-fitting, and often unfit for their purpose.

I realised clay offered a solution, and so began my journey of reframing drains.

“What if my idea worked”…the protype showed great promise….

The next attempt really did work exactly how I planned it.

“Hands On”

(Approx 45cm x 35cm)

I now create bespoke ceramic drain covers for clients.

“Mermates”

(Approx 45cm x 45cm)

For this commission I knew the client already, and though I had a free reign on the design, I knew it was our shared love for a dip in the sea that I would celebrate on this drain cover. So here we are two mermates, talking it all through in the bracing North Sea.

She told me, she, “LOVES IT SO MUCH”.

“She is an angel!” (Approx 45cm x 45cm)

This client invited me into her home to meet her. We had a long chat about life the universe and everything over a cuppa and the biscuit tin. Very kindly she told me to let the muse take me where it wanted to go, and so I did.

At the time I decided on the subject, we didn’t think her fabulous Jack Russel at 16 years had long to go, but I’m pleased to tell you at the date of writing that she is still with us. Long live Peppa!

When she saw it she told me, “IT’S GORGEOUS!, Peppa IS an angel.”.

Art For Everyday

If you like to express your personality inside your house with art and collectibles, you may already consider how you do this outside your house.

Celebrate a moment in time, or a place, a person, with a personalised drain cover that will be the envy of all your neighbours!

Please contact me to discuss the cost. Early adopters will not be disappointed!

Who am I?

I am a potty mouthed artist who works with clay. I truly didn’t always swear but 16 years at the Bar took its toll on my vocabulary. But, I also love to talk and learn about all things pots and clay.

I am a problem solver, a tinkerer, observer of the gaps that need filling.

I am a hand builder, a journeyman thrower, but my vessels hold their own water.

I’m interested in people and their stories and how I can capture it for them in a handmade ceramic object.

I am currently studying an MA in Visual Practice at Sunderland University, with ceramics as my medium.

I have been messing around with clay ever since my mum sent me to an adults pottery night class when I was 7, while she taught another kind of class herself down the corridor. I loved it. I picked it up again in secondary school, and the pottery studio was the only place I really wanted to be.

When I became a working lawyer I went to night classes again as a way to relax, and by sheer coincidence they were with the same wonderful teacher, Gordon Cooke, who had let me into the adults lessons all those years ago when I was little.

I am looking forward to this next adventure.

Who am I? I’m Gemma Saleh, Called to Clay.

Reach Out

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and I will be in touch shortly. I can’t wait to hear from you!