About
Maria makes unique tableware combining traditional Asian print patterns with contemporary design.
Her influences are drawn from the elegant and minimalist forms of Japan and China with decorative aspects from India and the Middle East.
Much of her work is decorated using antique, hand-carved, wooden printing blocks from the Far East known as ‘Bunta’. These blocks can be up to a hundred years old, enabling Maria to combine traditional design with contemporary form.
Wheel-thrown and press-molded, each piece is made individually by hand, combining subtle glazes with a special blend of textured clay.
Maria's work strives to be modern yet nostalgic with a story behind every piece.
"Incorporating Japanese influences and inspirations from her travels abroad (Spain, India, the West Indies, etc) West London-based Maria De Haan creates functional tableware that’s ethereal, elegant, and timeless. These Noa Ceramic pieces have grace, they have soul, they have a purity that can save us from our harried, anxious, grasping lives.'' - handfulofsalt.com
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Background
Maria was inspired to train as a ceramicist after extensive travel in East Asia, which fuelled a passion for the understated, elegant designs of the region.
Following an apprenticeship at North Street Potters and one-on-one training with renowned potter Simon Leach, Maria took up residency under Mike Goddard in a converted 18th century sugar mill on the beautiful island of Bequia in the West Indies.
She returned to London in 2008 and set up her own studio, Noa Ceramics, where she now works full time.
Her work has been exhibited at galleries and events throughout the UK and has been featured in books and magazines internationally.
