Mud Rock

To mark their 10th anniversary, the team behind ceramic studio Mud Rock organised Clay Camp, designed a weeklong celebration to foster a sense of community and showcase the talents of international ceramic
masters. From September 27th to October 3rd 2023, The Arts House in Singapore served as the backdrop for this unique gathering of passionate artists.

At the heart of it lies a desire to cultivate a community of like-minded individuals with a shared passion for ceramics. This unique event also served as a platform to unite artists in a collective celebration of creativity.

The Master's Show

Clay Camp shone a spotlight on the ceramic artists of Singapore and beyond, offering them an opportunity to showcase their talents and connect with established practitioners in the field. Aspiring artists also had the chance to attend masterclasses led by internationally acclaimed masters including Greg Daly (Australia), Iskandar Jalil
(Singapore), Janet DeBoos (Australia), Somluk Pantiboon (Thailand) and Zhang Liming (China).

[start:#808080]WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO ESTABLISH MUD ROCK CERAMICS 10 YEARS AGO, AND HOW HAS THE STUDIO GROWN SINCE THEN?[end:#808080]

Seok and I founded Mud Rock due to our passion for handmade ceramics and the lack of locally handmade ceramics for homes and restaurants. We were disheartened that for a city whose richness and dynamism has so much to do with our food culture, F&B business owners had to rely on imported or wholesale factory-made ceramics. In every other city, people can easily seek out and support their local potters for their daily needs, but Singaporeans and F&B establishments did not have that option until we started Mud Rock 10 years ago.

Now, it is common to find restaurants using locally made ceramics, and see a growing appreciation for the craft among patrons. From students to customers, and just admirers of the craft, our space has taken in people from all walks of life, connected by a common interest: A love for ceramics and possibly our studio dog, Buddy. 

Masterclasses, Workshops and Demonstrations

[start:#808080]CAN YOU DISCUSS SOME OF THE UNIQUE ASPECTS OR FEATURES THAT SET MUD ROCK CERAMICS APART AS A STUDIO, AND HOW THESE QUALITIES CONTRIBUTE TO ITS SUCCESS?[end:#808080]

Mud Rock's unique appeal lies in the distinct glazes and colours showcased on our ceramics, which stem from the exclusive recipes developed in our studio lab. We share this knowledge through our annual five-week intensive glaze course. Beyond our products, our essence is deeply rooted in the vibrant energy and atmosphere we foster, driven by our 'Clay Commune' initiative.

Introduced seven years ago, Clay Commune provides a dedicated space for students to freely practise and create at their own pace. Over time, it has evolved into a supportive community, offering assistance and resources during our pro bono workshops and events. The boundless generosity within our community is an invaluable asset. 

Drawing on The Body Exhibition at The Arts House

[start:#808080]WHAT IS THE ROLE OF MUD ROCK CERAMICS IN SUPPORTING AND NURTURING LOCAL CREATIVES? HOW DO YOU FOSTER A SENSE OF BELONGING AND INSPIRATION WITHIN THE LARGER CERAMIC ARTS COMMUNITY?[end:#808080]

Through being genuinely curious about others, as everyone has a story that we can learn from. As educators, we learn to observe people's strengths and potential, and guide them towards growth. Which is why we are celebrating with Clay Camp for our 10-year anniversary.

Being pioneers of the new wave of ceramics in Singapore, and as the first full-fledged production studio with guided syllabus courses, we value the laying of foundation that supports the growth of ceramic creatives. These efforts have created possibilities not just for Mud Rock, but also for other potters and ceramic artists. All it took was the seed to be planted, and to have the faith that it will grow. And boy, has it grown! 

Campfire in the Jungle

Campfire in the Jungle, a closing party held at the heart of Mud Rock’s story - The Dragon Kilns.

The Dragon Kiln tour by Michelle, live firing demonstration of mini wood kilns by kiln master Zhang Liming, BBQ, beer and marshmallow over fire (sponsored by Mr Bucket), Butoh Dance performance by XUE of ENDLESS RETURN and live music sets from Weish, Kiat, Cherry Chan and Intriguant from music label SYNDICATE. 

[start:#808080]WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS LOCATION FOR YOUR CLOSING PARTY?[end:#808080]

It was where Seok and I first met when I was organising an island-wide campaign to save the dragon kilns. This was where our dreams of Mud Rock started; we had long conversations about how we could change the landscape of Singapore ceramics through everyday cups and bowls—something everyone would be able to relate to as a city of foodies. 

Having our closing party here was like having our Mud Rock story come full circle. It was our way of paying tribute to the anchors—the dragon kilns—that have taken us to where we are now. 

[start:#808080]WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE DRAGON KILNS AT JALAN BAHAR TO YOU?[end:#808080]

While we no longer use the dragon kilns in the manner they were created for, it doesn't mean they are just relics.
Visiting them and walking through their 30 to 40 metre long bellies, we are reminded that as Singaporeans, we are
a people who make with our hands and our land. It reminds us of the uniqueness of the earth that sits beneath us
all, holding natural resources and raw materials that are necessary ingredients for ceramic making. These are what our ancestors knew to use, in order to create and support entire sectors and even the building industry that built
urban Singapore.