Hyderabad: For Manpreet Singh Nisther, a potter based in Hyderabad, each piece of clay he creates is a source of inspiration and a reflection of nature. His handmade glazed earthenware, which features various shades of turquoise, not only showcases the influence of nature on his work but also provides a glimpse into his sustainable lifestyle.
Manpreet Singh Nisther has been leading a sustainable lifestyle for 31 years and specializes in creating art decor and exotic garden ornaments using eco-friendly, zero-waste materials. His MSN Studio and house in Kokapet, which he established four years ago, were constructed with repurposed industrial waste and are powered by solar energy. Working with clay, he believes, is therapeutic, and it allows him to work with the five elements of nature – earth, water, air, fire, and space. The 49-year-old potter adds that he incorporates upcycled wine bottles and grey water into his clay creations.
Despite being artistically inclined during his youth, Manpreet pursued an MBA and started working in marketing. However, fifteen years ago, he made the decision to pursue his passion for pottery, attending a summer camp in Delhi to learn the techniques of hand-making objects. With limited options available in Hyderabad, Manpreet had to travel to and from Delhi for ten years to develop his skills.
With a palette ranging from fiery oranges to cool aqua greens and blues, Manpreet’s striking ceramic pieces predominantly feature flora, fauna, and all things inspired by Mother Nature. Each of his creations is handcrafted using traditional tools, and he uses an electric kiln to keep his carbon footprint low. In his studio, there is no garbage bin, only a recycling bin. Manpreet questions the fairness of expecting Mother Earth to tolerate trash forever when even in our homes, we don’t tolerate it for even a day. He finds it fulfilling to create something beautiful out of waste, thus contributing to nature in his own way.
Manpreet not only creates pottery but also imparts his knowledge and skills to others. He teaches pottery at his studio on weekends and welcomes students of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced, to join his 10-class programme. In addition to his regular classes, he conducts workshops for corporates and at birthdays in the city.
