the evolving VISION

At Mati, the journey truly begins with the ground beneath our feet.

This space was born from a quiet but persistent desire—to reconnect with nature through creativity, and to build something that brings people back to what feels real. Over time, Mati has become a meeting place for artists, makers, and seekers who value craftsmanship, sustainability, and the simple, powerful act of slowing down.

I’ve always believed in the grounding wisdom of working with our hands and the earth. Through natural materials and traditional techniques, we explore practices like ceramics, sculpture, natural building, and permaculture. These aren’t just skills; they’re ways of being.

What we create here is never solitary. Creativity, for us, is a shared experience—messy, meaningful, and alive. Whether you’re new to clay or have shaped it for years, you’re welcome here. Our workshops are led by artists and craftspeople who guide with generosity and care, inviting curiosity and connection at every step.

Mati is where art meets earth, where traditional knowledge and design live side by side with mindful, everyday practice. We’ve come to call it TerraCulture—a way of relating to the land, and to each other, through creative work.

The groundwork is laid. What grows from here is still unfolding.

Warmly,

Aparna Sukhija
Founder

the growing TEAM

Aparna Sukhija - Creative Director

A ceramics specialist with a background in design, Aparna has long been driven by a desire to create environments where people can slow down and engage deeply. Early in her career, she built a design and communications business, but her path gradually shifted toward more grounded work. Alongside learning pottery, she volunteered in schools and on permaculture farms—experiences that shaped her approach to community and craft. From co-creating a dance space and café, to finally founding Mati, each chapter has reflected her commitment to sustainable, intentional living.

Gloriana Riggioni - Creative Partner

A multidisciplinary sculptor, Gloriana began working with clay at 14 as an apprentice in her native Costa Rica. Her path took her through the UK, where she studied Art History and Philosophy and wrote for art magazines before moving into teaching. Drawn to India by a spiritual call and a longing to reconnect with nature, she now works solely with natural materials, exploring traditional techniques to create large-scale sculptures and architectural forms. Her practice brings together a deep respect for craft, place, and the poetic potential of raw earth.

Bharath Kailas

An integral part of the Mati family, bringing heart, humor, and creativity into the studio every day.

After leaving behind a corporate life in search of something more grounded, he found his calling in clay. He trained at CVPI Khanapur, completing an intensive six-month advanced wheel course before stepping into his role as a pottery teacher.

His classes are full of energy and quirky ideas that capture the playful spirit of the studio. A passionate sports fan, he even built a pickleball court in his native Kerala.

Shruti Dankhara

The newest member of our instructor team, and already, she feels like an essential thread in Mati’s fabric. Thoughtful, perceptive, and grounded, her learning curve has broken speed records! She brings care to each moment—as a teacher, an artist, and to the space around her. Once a full-time copywriter with pottery on the side, her path has now tilted decisively toward clay, where her eye for beauty and love for process find their true home. She's the kind of person you want beside you when you're building something that matters.

Manasi Nanoskar

The heart of the hearth and the reason we're all so well-fed and cared for. A treasured part of Aparna’s earlier ventures, she brings unmatched dedication—and delicious food—to everything she does. From morning chai to hearty lunches, Manasi keeps the team running with warmth, flavor, and quiet strength.

Vimla Tirkey

The youngest and newest member of the team, but she's quickly become indispensable. From keeping the studio spotless to recycling and kneading clay, she ensures everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. With a love for gardening and a flair for flower arrangements, Vimla brings a touch of beauty wherever she goes—inside the studio and out.

Poonam Rani

Street-smart, sharp, and deeply devoted to whatever she takes on, she’s the first person we call when we’re stuck. Poonam has been with us since the early days of building Mati, and over time, she has become extended family. Whether it's solving a tricky problem or simply showing up with heart, she is someone we count on—always.

Eknath Anant Joshi

With the greenest of hands, Eknath Bhaiya seems to share an unspoken bond with every plant he tends. Though he works with us part-time, his touch lingers—leaving behind thriving gardens and smiling faces. Somehow, just when the plants need him, he appears—often before we even call.

Mistar & Farooq—The bamboo brothers

Originally brought on to help with our roof construction, they ended up building so much more! Their craftsmanship and care are woven into every corner of Mati. No Eid passes without a visit from them, and year after year, they return to help us prepare and repair our beloved mud-and-bamboo structures for the changing seasons. They’re not just builders—they’re part of our story.

Core Team:

Instructors:

Support Staff: