Hylton Nel & His Legacy

This page is dedicated to celebrating internationally recognised South African ceramicist Hylton Nel.

Hylton’s body of work, which takes inspiration from British ceramics, biblical icons, and Greek mythology spans decades and has consequently inspired many, most recently the creative director of Christian Dior, Kim Jones, for the men’s Summer 2025 collection.

Hylton Nel’s legacy includes not only being a prolific ceramist but also being the inspiration for the unofficial “School of Nel.” The artists in school channel the motifs and style of Hylton’s work and impose their own vision and interpretation.

One of the first artists to be inspired by Hylton is Nico Masemola.

Hylton instructed Nico in his studio, paving the way for his successful career as a ceramist. Though there is an undeniable affinity for the playful aesthetics of both Nel and Masemola’s works, Nico’s detailed, nuanced construction and bold use of colour set them apart.

On this page you’ll find works by Hylton, Nico, and “School of Nel” ceramists still working today.