Ceramic Artist | Cultural Producer | Researcher

Rika Herbst is a South African ceramic artist and cultural producer whose practice seamlessly integrates contemporary ceramics, heritage preservation, and creative leadership. Transitioning from a successful career in marketing in 2003, she established her own studio and has since developed a distinctive sculptural practice inspired by natural forms—particularly trees—as potent symbols of cultural memory, interconnectedness, and resilience.

Specializing in paper porcelain and atmospheric/wood-firing techniques, Rika’s work emphasizes texture, process, and materiality, inviting viewers to explore the dynamic relationship between form and surface. Her artistic focus on atmospheric surfaces is complemented by her active role as a cultural organizer and advocate, fostering dialogue through clay.

Dedicated to documenting and archiving South Africa’s ceramic heritage, Rika prioritizes supporting underrepresented artists and preserving intangible cultural knowledge. She was a key member of the organizing team for the inaugural South African Clay Awards in 2024 and founded Clay Connect, a platform dedicated to professional development, exhibitions, and cultural exchange within the ceramics community.

As the producer of ClayChat, a YouTube series featuring interviews with artists and explorations of ceramic practice, community, and culture, Rika strives to elevate African ceramics onto the global stage. Through her research, video content, exhibitions, and advocacy work, she is committed to increasing visibility and fostering meaningful cultural dialogue through the medium of clay.