The ceramics
The ceramics
Hand made
The process of handmade ceramics begins with selecting and preparing the clay, which is then shaped by hand or on a wheel. After shaping, the piece is left to dry before being fired in a kiln at high temperatures to harden it.
Once cooled, the ceramic is glazed to add color and finish, then fired again to set the glaze. This process, requiring precision and skill, results in unique, durable pieces, each with its own character and charm.
The ceramics
Made to last
All the ceramics are made to be dishwasher-safe, thanks to the durability of the clay and glazes used in the production. The great craftsmanship makes the ceramics strong, so it can withstand daily use.
The firing process makes the ceramic strong and resistant to high temperatures, while non-toxic, food-safe glazes protect the surface. This makes them practical for everyday use, as they can withstand the heat and detergents of a dishwasher without losing their integrity or appearance.
The ceramics
Tope pottery
Tope Pottery is located on a stretch of open land on the outskirts of Nairobi. Grace and John opened Tope Pottery in 2011 when John’s former ceramics studio closed. Tope, pronounced “toh-pay” is derived from the Swahili word Matope, meaning soil.
The studio employs four potters in total, creating empowerment for local communities by providing a reliable income and good working conditions.