About the Artist

Originally from Austria, I moved to Scotland over 20 years ago. I fell in love with the North and the landscape continues to inspire my work every day.
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Martina Macleod - Ceramic Artist
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Balnakeil Beach, Durness
I attended the Keramikschule in Stoob before working in pottery workshops in both Austria and Greece. In 1991 I moved to Scotland to be an apprentice pottery for Lotte Glob in the Far North Pottery in Balnakeil Craft Village. Inspired by the rugged landscape of the North I developed my own style and opened a shop in Balnakeil Craft Village, at the time this was called 'Ceramic & Silk' because I also painted designs on to silk to create scarves and wall hangings but unfortunately no longer have the time to do this and have put all my focus in to pottery. In 2015 I rebranded as 'Mudness Ceramics' and started to sell my work online as well. 

Pottery is an ancient art form which is something that has always drawn me to it. The connection to the earth, it’s ability to mould so easily and then be transformed by extreme heat. It’s an exciting process combining all of the elements. I enjoy experimenting with various techniques, styles and colours to create a range of both functional and decorative pieces. Although I am usually kept very busy in the workshop, I try to make sure a day doesn’t go past where I don’t get outside. I’m very lucky to live right next to the beach and be able to wander along it often, exploring the rock pools when the tide is out.