Dear Katie,
Thank you for taking this journey with me in my blog post “Tea For Two with Melanie Rose.”
The post is about people who share the same passion I do for my work. Creatives, Artisans, Designers and Educators. I was so drawn to your unique blend of traditional craft and laugh-out-loud humor, I'm thrilled to chat with you today.
In a quiet studio somewhere between a kiln and a cauldron of chaos, mugs, plates, and pots are being transformed into weapons of mass hilarity. Covered in raunchy one-liners, unapologetic innuendos, and dirty little quips that would make your grandma blush (or laugh her dentures out), these ceramic pieces are more than just home décor: they're attitude in art form.
Okay, you’ve got to tell me: what made you look at a piece of pottery – often seen as quite traditional or wholesome – and think, ‘This needs a filthy quote on it’? Was it a sudden lightning bolt moment, a dare amongst friends, or a gradual evolution?"
I studied Studio Ceramics at Falmouth University and in our first term we tried three different ceramic skills; throwing, hand building and slip casting. I really loved slip casting and found the process of finding a piece and making a mold in plaster and creating repeat items really fascinating. I started casting complex pieces including ..... sex toys! The sex toys were a great shape but lacked functionality in ceramics (apart from the obvious functionality (!) so I made the sex toys in to handles and created cups on the top fusing two complex shapes. So I started making cock-cups. These cock cups turned in to cups and saucers. My original pieces were made in poured slip cast of different colors. I started using decal transfers to add words on to the tea cups and saucers and by 2008 I had started using florals juxtaposed with the rude words. So I guess it was a gradual evolution but now I've been making them for many, many years!
Thank you for taking this journey with me in my blog post “Tea For Two with Melanie Rose.”
The post is about people who share the same passion I do for my work. Creatives, Artisans, Designers and Educators. I was so drawn to your unique blend of traditional craft and laugh-out-loud humor, I'm thrilled to chat with you today.
In a quiet studio somewhere between a kiln and a cauldron of chaos, mugs, plates, and pots are being transformed into weapons of mass hilarity. Covered in raunchy one-liners, unapologetic innuendos, and dirty little quips that would make your grandma blush (or laugh her dentures out), these ceramic pieces are more than just home décor: they're attitude in art form.
Okay, you’ve got to tell me: what made you look at a piece of pottery – often seen as quite traditional or wholesome – and think, ‘This needs a filthy quote on it’? Was it a sudden lightning bolt moment, a dare amongst friends, or a gradual evolution?"
I studied Studio Ceramics at Falmouth University and in our first term we tried three different ceramic skills; throwing, hand building and slip casting. I really loved slip casting and found the process of finding a piece and making a mold in plaster and creating repeat items really fascinating. I started casting complex pieces including ..... sex toys! The sex toys were a great shape but lacked functionality in ceramics (apart from the obvious functionality (!) so I made the sex toys in to handles and created cups on the top fusing two complex shapes. So I started making cock-cups. These cock cups turned in to cups and saucers. My original pieces were made in poured slip cast of different colors. I started using decal transfers to add words on to the tea cups and saucers and by 2008 I had started using florals juxtaposed with the rude words. So I guess it was a gradual evolution but now I've been making them for many, many years!
Did you always have this creative streak? What did creativity look like for you growing up? Did you ever imagine you'd be putting sassy remarks on pottery back then?
I'd always loved ceramics but I got really into ceramics when I went away to school, I'm not sure how good I was as we had a great teacher who basically used to make amazing tea pots which we passed off as being ours but they were clearly not. Whilst working in London in my 20's I did ceramic evening classes with a friend and I loved it. I had a boyfriend who knew a lovely and brilliant potter in Cornwall. I was introduced to him and followed his work for ages and ages, I still do in fact. He was the one who said I should contact Falmouth Art College, as it was then, and do a degree.
For those readers who might not be familiar with the nuances of ceramics, could you please explain the basic differences between porcelain, fine bone china, and earthenware? What makes them distinct?
Of course, porcelain is beautiful and translucent. It’s great for using for lighting and is tricky to throw but fun in the challenge. One of my most complex pieces I have ever made is made in porcelain. It is in fact a giant anal love bead chandelier, now that's a sentence I am sure you haven't heard before! Porcelain is amazing because if you cast it or throw it very thinly light will show through it and it gives the most beautiful light.
Fine bone china is what I make most of my ceramics out of these days but I still dabble in other ceramic materials. I have some porcelain which I am making some pieces to slip cast out of.
Stoneware is another clay that I use regularly and I use white stoneware. It is strong and durable and I use this for making the smaller tea cups and saucers like the Whore tea cup and saucer owned by Lady Gaga.
Earthenware is the most common of the clays, it comes in a beige color, a grey, a white and also the red terracotta clay that you more commonly see. I tend to work with white clays as the red earthenware gets everywhere but I do love to throw with it.
Where do you find your quips and one-liners now? Do you keep a running list on your phone? Does inspiration strike while you're elbow-deep in clay, or does it bubble up from everyday life, awkward encounters, overheard conversations, maybe even disastrous dates?
My mind is a sewer, my clients also suggest smutty words and phrases to use for their personalization and sometimes words just pop in to my head. Recently someone took a great deal of time to send me an email telling me that my work was morally corrupt and I must have be very low class with low morals and self esteem. I know none of this is true and so I shared this with my followers on Instagram and one of my lovely regular clients thought this was hysterical and ordered mugs with these exact phrases on. I’ve also had a diatribe from my ex-sister-in-law which was horrific. I thought of creating a piece with her horrid words but haven’t actually done that yet!
I'd always loved ceramics but I got really into ceramics when I went away to school, I'm not sure how good I was as we had a great teacher who basically used to make amazing tea pots which we passed off as being ours but they were clearly not. Whilst working in London in my 20's I did ceramic evening classes with a friend and I loved it. I had a boyfriend who knew a lovely and brilliant potter in Cornwall. I was introduced to him and followed his work for ages and ages, I still do in fact. He was the one who said I should contact Falmouth Art College, as it was then, and do a degree.
For those readers who might not be familiar with the nuances of ceramics, could you please explain the basic differences between porcelain, fine bone china, and earthenware? What makes them distinct?
Of course, porcelain is beautiful and translucent. It’s great for using for lighting and is tricky to throw but fun in the challenge. One of my most complex pieces I have ever made is made in porcelain. It is in fact a giant anal love bead chandelier, now that's a sentence I am sure you haven't heard before! Porcelain is amazing because if you cast it or throw it very thinly light will show through it and it gives the most beautiful light.
Fine bone china is what I make most of my ceramics out of these days but I still dabble in other ceramic materials. I have some porcelain which I am making some pieces to slip cast out of.
Stoneware is another clay that I use regularly and I use white stoneware. It is strong and durable and I use this for making the smaller tea cups and saucers like the Whore tea cup and saucer owned by Lady Gaga.
Earthenware is the most common of the clays, it comes in a beige color, a grey, a white and also the red terracotta clay that you more commonly see. I tend to work with white clays as the red earthenware gets everywhere but I do love to throw with it.
Where do you find your quips and one-liners now? Do you keep a running list on your phone? Does inspiration strike while you're elbow-deep in clay, or does it bubble up from everyday life, awkward encounters, overheard conversations, maybe even disastrous dates?
My mind is a sewer, my clients also suggest smutty words and phrases to use for their personalization and sometimes words just pop in to my head. Recently someone took a great deal of time to send me an email telling me that my work was morally corrupt and I must have be very low class with low morals and self esteem. I know none of this is true and so I shared this with my followers on Instagram and one of my lovely regular clients thought this was hysterical and ordered mugs with these exact phrases on. I’ve also had a diatribe from my ex-sister-in-law which was horrific. I thought of creating a piece with her horrid words but haven’t actually done that yet!
I understand that there are many people who do not like rude words or suggestive comments but my naughty work is not for everyone. I personalize everything to order so whatever your predilection I can create something unique especially for you, whether you are Great Aunt Dorothy or a child or the Queen who I in fact made some pieces for her Jubilee celebrations.
This brings me on to my celebrity clients that I thought I’d give a quick mention to! I have made work for the late HRH Queen Elizabeth, King Charles, Lady Gaga, Damien Hirst, Harry Enfield, Joanna Lumley, Grayson Perry, Elton John, Kate Beckinsale, Justin Timberlake and numerous other high profile people all over the world, just little me.
Can you share your favorite piece you’ve made – the one that genuinely made you laugh out loud? What's the story or the joke behind it?
It has to be the giant anal love bead chandelier. I actually made to for my final degree show. It's my favorite as it was such an impossibly challenging piece to make and people's reactions when I tell them what I have made, is also fantastic. It’s bold, huge, and was made in fine porcelain. I would love to put it somewhere in all its glory some day so if you have a room that you feel would suit a giant anal love bead chandelier you know who to call!
I really enjoy being present when my work is sold as the reactions I receive are priceless and make me happy.
Art is often personal. Do you ever use your pieces, even the humorous ones, to process your own life stuff — navigating relationships, venting frustrations, celebrating small victories?
My art and my ceramics are so personal, I have a son but my ceramics were always my first baby. If I receive negative comments I always take them personally but I also relish the amazing comments as my ceramics really are my life. I work from home so I live and breathe ceramics. I find it therapeutic to make ceramics, not just adding the transfers although that is satisfying. When a new client comes to me with their idea but they are not sure of or a photograph or a selection of photographs and they trust me with the process of creating something unique for them I get really passionate about understanding exactly what they want from my design. I am so excited when I get the transfers back and can show them what I have done. I can almost visualize them opening up their exciting package from me and their reaction and comments make me really happy.
A few years ago I created a really unique and fun wedding present for someone. I went off to meet Ant, the giver of the present, who later met with the bride telling her he had something amazing for their wedding present and I was asked to the reception to see the grand unveiling of the gift. It’s something I don’t usually get to see, but the reactions of the bride and groom were priceless and we all became great friends after this.
This brings me on to my celebrity clients that I thought I’d give a quick mention to! I have made work for the late HRH Queen Elizabeth, King Charles, Lady Gaga, Damien Hirst, Harry Enfield, Joanna Lumley, Grayson Perry, Elton John, Kate Beckinsale, Justin Timberlake and numerous other high profile people all over the world, just little me.
Can you share your favorite piece you’ve made – the one that genuinely made you laugh out loud? What's the story or the joke behind it?
It has to be the giant anal love bead chandelier. I actually made to for my final degree show. It's my favorite as it was such an impossibly challenging piece to make and people's reactions when I tell them what I have made, is also fantastic. It’s bold, huge, and was made in fine porcelain. I would love to put it somewhere in all its glory some day so if you have a room that you feel would suit a giant anal love bead chandelier you know who to call!
I really enjoy being present when my work is sold as the reactions I receive are priceless and make me happy.
Art is often personal. Do you ever use your pieces, even the humorous ones, to process your own life stuff — navigating relationships, venting frustrations, celebrating small victories?
My art and my ceramics are so personal, I have a son but my ceramics were always my first baby. If I receive negative comments I always take them personally but I also relish the amazing comments as my ceramics really are my life. I work from home so I live and breathe ceramics. I find it therapeutic to make ceramics, not just adding the transfers although that is satisfying. When a new client comes to me with their idea but they are not sure of or a photograph or a selection of photographs and they trust me with the process of creating something unique for them I get really passionate about understanding exactly what they want from my design. I am so excited when I get the transfers back and can show them what I have done. I can almost visualize them opening up their exciting package from me and their reaction and comments make me really happy.
A few years ago I created a really unique and fun wedding present for someone. I went off to meet Ant, the giver of the present, who later met with the bride telling her he had something amazing for their wedding present and I was asked to the reception to see the grand unveiling of the gift. It’s something I don’t usually get to see, but the reactions of the bride and groom were priceless and we all became great friends after this.
I’ve had a tough time personally and with business for quite a few years now and really want to grow Outlandish Creations more so it can give my son and I more financial freedom and the ability to live somewhere nice, its been really difficult but I am determined to get a better work / life balance with less struggling trying to make ends meet and more fun and happiness. So, it’s all personal, every single piece that I make. I’ve made gifts for friends and family. I’ve wanted to give my ex-husband a ‘Wanker’ or similar mug too many times but I’ve settled some something more appropriate from our son! I’ve made some really special pieces for people who are going through difficult times, negotiating illness and sadness as gifts because it makes me happy to give gifts to generate laughter or just so I can show that I care for someone. I’ve been commissioned to make gifts for Elton John and David Furnish and I put in a couple of little extra things which Elton shared on his Instagram as the other gifts would not have been suitable and I have letters from many very famous people which I take great pleasure in looking at to show how far I have come. It’s still a struggle as I need to make more sales but I know my work is amazing and Outlandish Creations deserves to be doing really, really well because of the many years of time and effort I have put in.
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What’s been your consistent best-seller, and why do you think that particular phrase or design resonates so strongly with people? Does it tap into a shared experience or a common sentiment? I guess the Whore tea cup and saucer is the best seller overall because Lady Gaga was given it by her stylist and posted it on Twitter. It was in the newspaper but the journalist sadly failed to mention my company but Little Monsters everywhere have still managed to find me over the years. |
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What advice would you give to another creative soul wanting to inject their own brand of humor, personality, or even a little bit of 'filth' into their chosen art form?
I think you just have to do what you love and what appeals to you in the media that you work best in. When I started my rude pieces in 2003 I think I was fairly unique in doing what I do, there are a fair few people making filthy pieces in all sorts of media, be it cross-stitch, pottery or painting. I think it’s just to find your own path. I do see things every day that look a little bit too much like mine which I do find frustrating as they say plagiarism is a form of flattery but I know I am the original and the best and the longest on the scene!
Looking ahead, what's next for your ceramic creations? Any new lines, collaborations, or hilariously inappropriate projects bubbling away near that kiln?
I’m always up for collaborations, I’m going to see a UK rapper tomorrow night and I’ve made some amazing pieces for him so I’m always hoping that my clients love them so much that they promote me as their go to celebrity ceramic maker and share the love for Outlandish Creations a little bit more!
I think you just have to do what you love and what appeals to you in the media that you work best in. When I started my rude pieces in 2003 I think I was fairly unique in doing what I do, there are a fair few people making filthy pieces in all sorts of media, be it cross-stitch, pottery or painting. I think it’s just to find your own path. I do see things every day that look a little bit too much like mine which I do find frustrating as they say plagiarism is a form of flattery but I know I am the original and the best and the longest on the scene!
Looking ahead, what's next for your ceramic creations? Any new lines, collaborations, or hilariously inappropriate projects bubbling away near that kiln?
I’m always up for collaborations, I’m going to see a UK rapper tomorrow night and I’ve made some amazing pieces for him so I’m always hoping that my clients love them so much that they promote me as their go to celebrity ceramic maker and share the love for Outlandish Creations a little bit more!
All that talk of clay and quips, it’s definitely time for the 'Tea for Two' part of our chat. I believe a good brew fuels creativity, so I’ve brought three of my personal favorites for you to choose from today. Which one tempts you?
Darjeeling Black Tea. Known as the Champagne of Teas. Notes of muscatel, floral, fruity with a subtle sweetness.
Earl Grey Tea. Notes of citrus, spice, malt, and smoke.
English Breakfast Tea. The popular British morning tea. Offers a bold flavor similar to coffee with roasted notes. Hints of malty, bitter, and mildly sweet notes.
I've always loved Earl Grey so I would choose Earl Grey out of these choices. My favorite tea is actually Lapsang Souchong but I also love Rose Pouchong.
Sugar? Yes or No? (And if yes, how many lumps or spoons)? Definitely not for me, I’m sweet enough!
Milk? Yes Or No? Yes, lactose free semi skimmed!
Darjeeling Black Tea. Known as the Champagne of Teas. Notes of muscatel, floral, fruity with a subtle sweetness.
Earl Grey Tea. Notes of citrus, spice, malt, and smoke.
English Breakfast Tea. The popular British morning tea. Offers a bold flavor similar to coffee with roasted notes. Hints of malty, bitter, and mildly sweet notes.
I've always loved Earl Grey so I would choose Earl Grey out of these choices. My favorite tea is actually Lapsang Souchong but I also love Rose Pouchong.
Sugar? Yes or No? (And if yes, how many lumps or spoons)? Definitely not for me, I’m sweet enough!
Milk? Yes Or No? Yes, lactose free semi skimmed!
Earl Grey Tea for 2
Step by Step
Use fresh cold water (filtered if possible) and bring it to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, let it sit for about 30 seconds to cool slightly—ideal for preserving the delicate flavor of the bergamot.
Warming your teapot or mug (from Outlandish Creations!)
Swirl a splash of hot water inside your teapot or mug to gently warm it. This helps maintain the steeping temperature. Discard the water before adding your tea.
Measure and add your tea
Loose Leaf (I love Fortnum & Mason) Add 1 heaping teaspoon per 8pz of water into a teapot or infuser.
Or if you prefer 1 teabag.
Pouring in the hot water
Swirl a splash of hot water inside your teapot or mug to gently warm it. This helps maintain the steeping temperature. Discard the water before adding your tea.
Steep Gracefully
Let the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your taste:
3 minutes for a lighter, floral brew
5 minutes for a stronger, more robust flavor with a slight citrusy bite
Customize to Your Taste
Lemon: A traditional pairing—enhances the citrus aroma. (Never combine lemon and milk; it will curdle.)
Milk: Adds a smooth, creamy texture. Works well with stronger brews.
Honey or sugar: A touch of sweetness complements the floral, citrusy flavor without overpowering it.
And now enjoy!
Step by Step
Use fresh cold water (filtered if possible) and bring it to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, let it sit for about 30 seconds to cool slightly—ideal for preserving the delicate flavor of the bergamot.
Warming your teapot or mug (from Outlandish Creations!)
Swirl a splash of hot water inside your teapot or mug to gently warm it. This helps maintain the steeping temperature. Discard the water before adding your tea.
Measure and add your tea
Loose Leaf (I love Fortnum & Mason) Add 1 heaping teaspoon per 8pz of water into a teapot or infuser.
Or if you prefer 1 teabag.
Pouring in the hot water
Swirl a splash of hot water inside your teapot or mug to gently warm it. This helps maintain the steeping temperature. Discard the water before adding your tea.
Steep Gracefully
Let the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your taste:
3 minutes for a lighter, floral brew
5 minutes for a stronger, more robust flavor with a slight citrusy bite
Customize to Your Taste
Lemon: A traditional pairing—enhances the citrus aroma. (Never combine lemon and milk; it will curdle.)
Milk: Adds a smooth, creamy texture. Works well with stronger brews.
Honey or sugar: A touch of sweetness complements the floral, citrusy flavor without overpowering it.
And now enjoy!
