About

Where clay, garden, and ancient fragrance meet

Margaret River artist Rika Rouw is a ceramicist with deep roots in small-batch pottery and community arts across Western Australia. As the maker behind Margaret River Incense, she brings together handcrafted pottery incense holders and handmade incense — each one made entirely by hand.

"Working with clay grounds me, and gardening is an extension of that connection."

Recently, Rika planted a large garden — incorporating a native plant section — and found herself drawn to highly aromatic plants and their effects on the human psyche. It was this exploration that led her to bring together her two loves: pottery and the natural world of plants and fragrance.

"Our sense of smell connects directly to the part of our brain that holds memory and emotions, influencing how we feel and perceive the world."

This philosophy carries through to every piece she makes. Just as she grows food free from pesticides, Rika creates incense using only natural plant materials — no glues, no harmful additives. The pottery incense holders are kiln-fired with washable, food-safe glazes; multi-functional, they serve equally as small dishes for jewellery or treasured objects.

Maker · Potter · Grower