Sculptural and Artistic Clay Pieces
I sculpt these pieces when I want to capture a feeling rather than just make something useful. Each figure or object is hand-built in my Kodathi studio, born from a mix of raw earth, patience, and stories I’ve collected along the way.
A portrait in clay. This expressive bust, sculpted from raw terracotta, captures a likeness with incredible texture and detail. Sculpting a face is a journey of patience and observation.
A terracotta sculpture of a woman, seated in quiet contemplation. The detailed texture of her dress and the gentle expression on her face tell a story of inner peace.
The making of an abstract sculpture. This piece, which explores the theme of motherhood, was created by carving away layers of a wheel-thrown form to reveal the figures within.
A back view of the seated woman sculpture, showing the intricate texture work on her clothing. Every mark is made by hand, adding to the piece's unique character.
The seated woman sculpture, seen from a different angle in my studio. The raw terracotta has a warmth and earthiness that I absolutely love.
The back of the sculpted bust, showing the detailed, hand-carved texture of the hair. Even the parts you don't always see are crafted with care.
Another view of the sculpted bust, showing the incredible likeness and the texture of the raw clay.
About this collection
When I hand-sculpt a piece, it is not about finding perfection but about building a connection. Unlike my wheel-thrown mugs, these sculptures are entirely built by hand, layer by layer, which means they hold the texture of my palms and the slow rhythm of the day they were created. If you are looking for an object that feels like it has a pulse, this is where you will find it.
Every piece in this collection is a departure from the routine. While I love the repetitive, soothing motion of the wheel, these sculptural works ask me to pause. Whether it is a bust reflecting a specific expression or a quirky animal figurine, the process is labor-intensive and slow. I use local clay, often preferring the honesty of terracotta or high-fired stoneware that shows its own grain.
Some of these pieces go through an 18-hour firing process in my kiln. Because they are not mass-produced, each sculpture carries the fingerprints of its creation. You will find that these works are rarely perfectly symmetrical, which is intentional. I prefer the character of a warped edge or the deep, tactile imprint left by a carving tool over the sterile finish of commercial decor.
If you are visiting my studio in Kodathi, you can often see these pieces in their raw, unfired state before they go into the kiln. For those looking to own a piece, please note that while these are durable, they are art objects. They require gentle handling and are best kept away from high-traffic areas where they might be knocked over. If you have a specific idea for a custom sculpture or a gift that needs to capture a certain mood, just reach out. I enjoy working on commissions where I can translate a personal story or a specific vibe into clay.
The Janbo
I am Madhumita. After walking away from a conventional career, I found my language in the mess and silence of clay. My studio in Bengaluru is where I turn quiet moments into these sculptures, and I would love for you to find something here that feels like it truly belongs in your home.
Looking for something else from my studio?
You can search through my other collections to find the perfect piece for your space.
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