Inspired by ancient artifacts and folk art found in the region of the Mediterranean, from Bronze Age Cypriot ritualistic pots to 19th century traditional Cretan embroideries, I destine my pieces to carry patterns, animals and plants, realizing a dialogue of earth, fire and living things of our Great Sea across millennia.

Trained to deliver high end craftsmanship in the lines of British studio pottery, my commitment to excel in technical skill is as strong as my desire to instill the narrative and beauty of the treasures of my cultural heritage into my work.

From hand-building and wheel-throwing to slip-casting I use the making method most fitting to each project I take on, although my favorite making method remains coiling. Understanding and manipulating glaze chemistry is as fundamental as making, hence I never cease to experiment in order to discover new, extraordinary glazes with vibrant colors and intriguing textures that cover my ceramic surfaces and complement my forms.

Melina Xenaki is a London/Athens based ceramics artist. After completing her BA with first class in Ceramics & Glass (UCA, Farnham) the maker moved to London to complete her two year Masters Degree at the Royal College of Art where she was taught by Martin Smith, Felicity Aylieff and Alison Britton (2012-2014). Since her graduation she has been a full-time ceramics artist and educator. She has collaborated with architecture practices, such as OOAK architects, Kokosalaki architecture and Kois Associated architects, to create unique ceramic objects and installations responding to the peculiarities of each site. She has created exclusive collections for the shops of the British Museum and of the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture.

Trained to deliver high end craftsmanship in the lines of British studio pottery, my commitment to excel in technical skill is as strong as my desire to instill the narrative and beauty of the treasures of my cultural heritage into my work.

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