Maria Melissianou + Studio Marmel

Studio Marmel is a Greek ceramics studio founded by architect and ceramicist Maria Melissianou, known for its handcrafted, organic, and sculptural ceramic pieces like mugs, plates, and vases, often featuring red clay and earthy tones, blending traditional techniques with modern design inspired by life and food around the table.

After 10 years in the UK where she studied architecture and worked in various offices, Maria returned to Greece and discovered ceramic art. It was a surprising liberation from the doctrine of architecture and the restrictive planning regulations. This hand-crafting medium became a channel to self-expression as she began to create ceramic sculptures and everyday objects. Her innate love for the blue color, which represents life, is evident in her creations. The ceramic object loses all moisture in its final form, which is why she leaves a blue imprint in memory of the water using different glazing techniques. The sculptural forms of her ceramics derive from the nature and fluidity of the clay. Maria also creates utilitarian ceramic objects which she incorporates into her architectural projects.