A few weeks ago we were given the opportunity to create handmade pieces for a game-changing new restaurant and when that final box was packed, taped and squeezed into Kim’s car, we knew we had actually done it!

As a ceramics studio, we live for the moments when we get to work with other artists and creatives ~ which is why we were super excited to say YES to Chef Andrew McCrea when he asked us to make the plates, bowls and serving trays for MEWS. 

It seemed like our handmade ceramics would be in (VERY!) good company ~ the award-winning art of Vincent Fantauzzo sets the backdrop for the environmentally conscious, luxury hotel located in Brisbane’s city centre.

The timeline was tight but we were up for the challenge ~ you could say we have been training for this moment. With slabs of clay at the ready, we set to rolling, shaping, pouring, glazing and firing in what felt like record time. Let’s just say, if there was an Olympics for ceramic artists, we’d like to think we well and truly qualified!

Working in partnership with local producers and artisans, Chef Andrew has created a vibrant seasonal menu with 80% of the produce sourced within 3 hours of the Brisbane venue ~ the newest addition to the 5-star Crystalbrook Vincent hotel. 

In the paddock-to-plate experience, so much emphasis is placed on the quality and locality of the produce ~ it’s wonderful to bring that full circle with our handmade ceramics ~ designed and crafted from scratch here in our Noosa studio to withstand demands of a commercial restaturant.

For MEWS, we created a gorgeous fusion of White on Stone, Stormy Blue, Classic White and Ember ~ a collective of signature pieces from both the Ebb Tide and Rugged Earth lines. We also had a lot of fun making some one-off, colourful custom plates to add a sophisticated, energetic ‘pop’ to the vibrant MEWS atmosphere and the amazing cuisine served.

MEWS boasts a stunning modern fit-out highlighted by custom pieces by local street-artists such as Mr. Sor2, JORDACHE and James Ellis ~ providing guests with a dynamic, playful atmosphere and distinctly Brisbanesque culinary experience. 

With such a focus on sustainability and creativity, our locally handmade ceramics are the perfect match for MEWS and Crystalbrook Vincent ~ next time you are in Brisbane, we recommend it as a must-do experience!