Gemma Smale is a UK-based ceramicist whose practice focuses on the creation of wood-fired ceramics, exploring the relationship between materials and traditional firing techniques. She has worked alongside a variety of makers, including Michel Francois, Emma Lacey, and Akira Satake.
Working both on the wheel and by hand, Gemma produces decorative and sculptural pieces for galleries and interior designers. Recently she built a traditional wood firing kiln, and is now progressing her surface development through the firing process. Gemma is particularly interested in increasing her understanding of how the flame and atmosphere within the kiln can interact with clay bodies that do not have full coverage of applied glaze.
Gemma’s work has recently been exhibited with Heritage Crafts at London Craft Week and with Design-Nation, and she has just won the Make It Award at Cockpit Arts London. She holds a BA in Ceramic Design from Central Saint Martins, London.
Gemma joined Design-Nation in 2024 as a Graduate, moving up to Professional in 2026.
