Founded in 2015 by Bruce Rowe and Claire Hatch, Anchor Ceramics grew out of an organic studio practice dedicated to interdisciplinary design. The studio extends the dialogue surrounding object design, ceramics and material exploration by bridging the founders' skill sets. Bruce brings a background in design, architecture and art practice, while Claire offers expertise in design, senior arts management and arts education. The duo have lectured at Curtin, The University of Western Australia, University of Melbourne and RMIT University. Their making process today begins with creative, studio-based research. “It is from the outcomes of that creative research process that we decide how to apply our work, whether to a product range, an artwork or a design project,” says Bruce.

The results of Anchor Ceramics' research and design process take the form of lighting, hardware and furniture, alongside architectural commissions such as tiles, building facades and large-scale sunscreens. Every material test is catalogued in the studio's online searchable database of over 6,000 artifacts. Through an in-house research programme, Anchor Ceramics also investigates landfill diversion strategies to develop regenerative materials for functional collections and cultural objects. The studio works with emerging artisans in Melbourne to continue the legacy of local ceramic knowledge. “We always aim to connect with new ways to humanise spaces and make a handmade life," Claire explains.