Meet the Maker: Nele Eckstein

The seasons are shifting. Leaves are turning gold, the air is getting crisp, and flowers are tucking into the earth to rest before spring returns. While nature slows down, one thing that never stops blooming at db pottery studio is creativity. And this November, our window display is full of stunning vases by our featured maker, Nele Eckstein.

Ceramics has become Nele’s calm counterbalance to her career in digitalization — a space where the pace changes and the hands lead the mind. “In the studio I find peace,” she shares. “My thoughts focus and wander into my hands.”

Here at the studio, Nele fully embraces the gentle unpredictability of clay. She loves giving in to curiosity, exploring different shapes and techniques, and allowing the creative process to unfold naturally. Vases remain her favorite form to build — timeless, sculptural objects that offer endless room for expression and surprise.

“Rarely does a piece leave the kiln the way I had imagined. Then again, this is the appeal: ceramics teaches me to embrace the unexpected and let go of the need for perfection.”

Nele Eckstein

Each vase in Nele’s collection embodies organic curves, thoughtful textures, and countless hours of craftsmanship and creative freedom. Even though her pieces rarely come out of the kiln (oven specifically for ceramics) as they were originally imagined, something every maker knows well, this is one of the many appeals for her. Ceramics teaches us to embrace the process, even if it is not what was planned, and to give up (some) control.

We are thrilled to spotlight Nele’s work this month and share a glimpse into her creative practice.

Visit Us & Stay Inspired

Stop by db pottery studio in Zurich to see Nele’s vases in our window display throughout November, and feel the warmth of handmade craftsmanship in person.

Follow along as we continue celebrating different makers each month — and discover the diverse talent that shapes our pottery community.

Creativity is always in season here! So come check out this month’s display.

📍 Schiffbaustrasse 9a, Zürich 8005