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In The Studio with Chela Edmunds of Takeawei Ceramics & Textile

Seriously good ceramics you'll want to take away!

Ashmore Arts resident Chela Edmunds has created a name for herself as one of the most vibrant ceramists of the region – not only for her striking and colourful creations but for her infectious attitude that translates through her workshops and classes. You’ll see her Instagram filled with bold images of her ceramic products that take you from studio to table, along with her signature lamps and boob trinkets! Then there are the Geelong Made blankets – cosy and cute!

Edmunds takes five minutes with Forte Magazine to take us into her studio and arts practice.

Keep up to date with all things arts, exhibitions and stage here.

In The Studio with Chela Edmunds of Takeawei Ceramics & Textiles

 

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Give us an overview of the work you create!

I work predominantly in high fired stoneware, creating functional, fun ceramics for daily use. My pieces are inspired by how I see the world around me, nature and the beach in particular but always portrayed in bright bold coloured glazes.

How long have you been developing your arts practice?

I’ve always been drawing, painting and then in my 20’s it was textiles and then I started exploring clay about 12 years ago.

How did you discover your passion for ceramics and textile?

I was living in New York when I started. It was something I had wanted to try for years but it was having access to a studio near my home that made it possible for me to start. I took classes on Monday night for a couple of years and then decided to move back to Australia to start Takeawei.

 

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A post shared by Takeawei Ceramics & Textiles – Chela Edmunds (@takeawei)

What have been the biggest milestones in your arts career to date?

I’m very glad that I get to wake up everyday and be creative, to make a living from my work and teaching. My ceramics are functional and although I have exhibited here and there I would say my biggest thrill is hearing from customers what my pieces mean to them and how they are loved.

What is your favourite artwork or series that you have created and why? 

I love making large bowls. They just feel so organic to make on the wheel. My most popular piece by far though would be the boob jewel box.

What has been the biggest challenge you face as an artist and how are you pushing through that barrier (if you can!)?

I wish there were more hours in a day. There are so many hats to wear in a creative business, not just the creation of pieces. I’m also often photographing work, on socials, studio maintenance or website updates. I’m also a mum of two and work / home life is pretty intertwined.

 

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A post shared by Takeawei Ceramics & Textiles – Chela Edmunds (@takeawei)

Where has your work been, or is your work currently, displayed?

I have had work in gallery stores like NGV and NGA and I had a retail store in Melbourne for about 4 years which I closed in 2023. I sell mainly online at Takeawei.com these days as I have less time in the studio and make smaller collections.

Tell us about your studio space! 

I love my studio! I moved out to Ashmore Arts, Torquay from my Melbourne studio in 2017. The arts community here is inspiring and supportive and we are surrounded by amazing views of green rolling hills. My space has 8 pottery wheels and other equipment for my practice but also teaching. I have my kilns in an outdoor undercover area and another 3 shipping containers with storage, drying racks and glaze area. I also love being right near the beach so I can pop out for a swim or surf at lunch.

 

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A post shared by Takeawei Ceramics & Textiles – Chela Edmunds (@takeawei)

What does a typical day of creating art look like for you both in the studio and out of the studio?

After school and daycare drop off I head to get a coffee and then to the studio. The daily studio work is varied –  I usually check the kilns or work that I made the day before to see if it’s ready to trim or attach handles to mugs. I might throw 20 or so pieces and put them out to dry on a sunny day.  If I’m unloading a kiln I’ll photograph the new pieces and get on socials to show what’s available. I like to BYO my lunch and eat outside with the beautiful view of the hills and catch up with other artists for a quick chat over lunch. Pottery is a constant rotation of work in various stages and time sensitive to elements so there are always many things to do.

How would you characterise the arts ecosystem in regional Victoria? 

I don’t know about the wider regional Victoria. At Ashmore Arts there are a variety of creatives, painters, weavers, potters, wood workers, metal workers, concrete artists and illustrators, some I’m more familiar with than others. Most are working professionally and have thriving arts practices. I also know the hard work they put in to get there. It is a constant working on your practice and your business.

 

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A post shared by Takeawei Ceramics & Textiles – Chela Edmunds (@takeawei)

How has being based in regional Victoria elevated your arts practice? 

My arts practice would look very different without the studio space I have at Ashmore. It’s so beautiful with lots of space for kilns, 9 wheels for classes and great views of the hills. Stewart Guthrie created this space and is an amazing support for many artists out here.

 

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A post shared by Takeawei Ceramics & Textiles – Chela Edmunds (@takeawei)

To shop the range, explore classes or simply admire Chela Edmunds work at Takeawei Ceramics and Textiles, head here.