Our Story
From a small studio dream to a thriving community of makers
Rooted in Heritage, Reaching Forward
Solar-ash began in 2018 when three ceramic artists pooled their savings, their kilns, and their passion to open a communal studio in Braamfontein. What started as a shared workspace quickly evolved into something more meaningful: a gathering place for people hungry to create with their hands.
We chose our name to reflect the transformation at the heart of pottery. Like ash from fire enriching soil, the heat of our kilns transforms raw clay into objects of permanence and beauty. And like the South African sun that defines our landscape, creativity here burns bright and constant.
What Guides Us
The principles that shape every piece and every interaction
Authenticity
Every wobble, every fingerprint in the glaze tells a story. We celebrate the human hand over machine precision.
Community
Our studio thrives because people show up, share techniques, and encourage one another through creative struggles.
Sustainability
We source clay locally, reclaim scraps, and power our kilns with solar energy harvested from the Highveld sun.
Accessibility
Pottery belongs to everyone. Our pricing and workshop structures aim to welcome makers from all walks of life.
The Artisans Behind the Wheel
Our team includes graduates of the Durban University of Technology ceramics programme, self-taught potters who honed their craft over decades, and emerging artists finding their voice. This diversity enriches our teaching and our collective output.
Lead instructor Tumelo Maseko trained under renowned potter David Walters before establishing his own practice. Studio manager Annika Botha brings fifteen years of gallery curation experience, connecting our makers with collectors and commercial partners. Together, they ensure Solar-ash remains both a sanctuary for creativity and a sustainable business.
Meet the Team
Become Part of Our Story
Whether you visit for a single workshop or join our community of regular makers, you carry a piece of Solar-ash with you. The bowls on your table, the memories in your hands, the confidence to create: these are the legacies we cultivate.
Explore WorkshopsStatements about our history, practices, and team reflect our current operations. Individual experiences and workshop outcomes may vary. Nothing on this page should be construed as a guarantee of specific artistic results or career outcomes. Visitors with material sensitivities should consult our staff before handling clay or glazes.