Brutalist Form in Clay: Meet ebo ceramics
On a recent sourcing trip to Sydney, our team discovered the striking works of ebo ceramics and we’re thrilled to announce they’ve just landed in our Burleigh showroom!
Founded by Erez Ben-Or, ebo ceramics is a collection of sculptural, hand-built forms inspired by the raw, geometric beauty of Brutalist architecture. With a background in fine art and graphic design, Erez translates the bold, monolithic presence of Brutalist structures into clay, creating pieces that feel both grounded and expressive.
Each form is meticulously crafted using slab-building techniques, echoing the materiality of concrete while maintaining a refined, tactile quality.
Join us as we sit down with Erez to discuss his process and the philosophy behind his work.
You can discover ebo ceramics' pieces in person at our Burleigh Showroom, or online here.
Creativity has always been a part of my life. As a child, I was constantly painting and drawing, and my parents wholeheartedly supported my artistic pursuits. At the age of 12, I began studying under a well-known Israeli painter, attending his classes for five years. This early training gave me a strong foundation in visual expression and a deep appreciation for form and composition.
In high school, I focused on art and graphic design, which naturally led me to a career as a graphic designer and web developer. After years of working in front of a screen, I found myself craving a more tactile and immersive creative process. That’s when I applied to the National Art School in Sydney, where I completed a BFA (Honours).
It was during my studies that I discovered ceramics, and it completely captivated me. The physicality of working with clay, the unpredictability of the firing process, and the balance between structure and spontaneity felt like a perfect fit. After spending time travelling, I returned home with a renewed passion and a firm commitment to pursuing ceramics full-time.
What does a day in Erez's life look like?
My day always starts with coffee, it’s non-negotiable! I check emails, plan meetings, and take care of any errands before heading out for a quick gym session. I find that movement helps me clear my mind, refine ideas, and get into a creative flow.
Most of my day is spent in the studio, where I’m developing new forms, refining textures, and experimenting with surface treatments. My work is very process-driven, so I immerse myself in the rhythm of making, cutting, assembling, sculpting, and glazing. Some days are about hands-on creation, while others are spent problem-solving and pushing ideas further.
Each one of your pieces is so intricate and unique. Who, where, and what do you turn to for inspiration?
My inspiration is drawn from a diverse range of influences. Architecture, especially brutalist structures, plays a huge role in my aesthetics. I’m fascinated by the combination of geometric forms and rhythms, raw materials, and monolithic structures that create a sense of presence and permanence.
I’m also deeply influenced by mid-century ceramics and illustration, as well as sci-fi films like 2001: A Space Odyssey and The Fifth Element. There’s something about their futuristic yet timeless design language that resonates with me and it often finds its way into my work.
If you had to describe your work in three words, what would they be?
Raw, monumental, and playful.
And if you had to pick a favourite from your collections, which one would you choose and why?
Choosing a favourite is nearly impossible, it’s like picking a favourite child! But if I had to narrow it down, I’d say a vessel from my Echo Form collection. This series embodies what my work is all about, pieces that feel both familiar and strange, blending structure with fluidity and function.
What are you currently watching, reading, or listening to?
I’ve been hooked on Severance—its eerie, surreal atmosphere is incredibly compelling. For podcasts, The Daily is a go-to for staying informed, and I’m always on the lookout for new music to fuel my studio sessions.
Explore the collection by ebo ceramics here.