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Article: Neal Camilleri: A Journey in Material and Memory

Neal Camilleri: A Journey in Material and Memory

It was a pleasure to meet Neal Camilleri, a London-based Maltese artist whose journey in ceramics and sculpture is as much about self-discovery as it is about craftsmanship.

Neal arrived in London with no established plans or contacts. But through his work with clay and other materials, he found a way to express his story—a process that became both his craft and his creative voice.

Neal’s philosophy is straightforward and authentic: “It doesn’t really matter about the qualification you have. It’s just actually what you can make.”

For him, each piece is a product of memory and experimentation. His childhood in Malta, particularly memories of his grandmother’s home, serves as a rich source of inspiration. He recalls furniture with lion paw feet and vibrant colours that had character and life, elements he now translates into contemporary sculptures that blend nostalgic forms with bold, modern twists.

Working with clay, Neal embraces a process of constant exploration. Some pieces collapse, others transform mid-creation, but he welcomes each twist as part of the journey. “If it doesn’t succeed with clay, I’m going to use another material,” he says. This openness to experimentation has led to works that balance form and function, expressing his memories while pushing the boundaries of traditional ceramics.

Neal’s work captures the essence of making as an art form, inviting us to see memories reimagined through his sculptures. His pieces may appear functional, yet each one tells a deeper story, reflecting his ongoing journey from concept to creation.