The Story of CLO-A: From Clay to Creation – A Founder’s Journey

I’m Nandini Sharma, the founder of CLO-A, a brand born not only from an idea but a fond childhood memory. Growing up in my grandmother’s hometown, a humble city of artisans in Uttar Pradesh, my fondness for ceramics grew exponentially. With a childhood surrounded by colourful  handmade ceramics, woman artisans, potters and generational passage of art, the growing curiosity knew no bounds.  

 The vivid dance of colors as skilled artisans painted each piece with skill, patience and love till date catches my curiosity. I didn’t just see cups and plates being made—I saw stories taking shape. I watched every chemical, every glaze, every brushstroke and stood in awe of the artistry. There was magic in every motion, a science in every swirl.

That’s where my love story with ceramics began—not as a business idea, but as part of my everyday experience. I knew the people behind these beautiful creations. Their hands were rough, but their art was fine. Many were women— strong, incredibly skilled, yet largely unrecognized. In their simplicity lay unmatched craftsmanship, and in their resilience, a silent power.

As I got older, I realized something that really stuck with me—people often overlook the beauty and talent that come from humble backgrounds. The art, the hard work, the culture, the history and the story often goes unnoticed.That’s when I decided that I wanted to create something that would shine a light on their work and take it with the world. I then pledged to build a platform where tradition would couple up with modernity and that’s how CLO-A came to life.

CLO-A isn’t just a brand. It’s a tribute. A tribute to the quiet and humble artisanal  towns where hands weigh more than machines. A tribute to affordable luxury that doesn’t compromise on beauty or ethics. A tribute to the women artisans, the laborers, the quiet creators who deserve to be seen, valued, and uplifted.

At CLO-A, every product tells a story. A story of passion, precision, and purpose. We aim to redefine luxury—not as something distant and unaffordable, but as something soulful and accessible. Every piece you hold is a piece of a dream—crafted with care, shaped by heritage, and brought to life by a community that still believes in the magic of handicrafts.

Through CLO-A, I hope to empower the female workforce, support traditional artisans, and let the world discover the richness of our overlooked cities—one beautiful piece at a time.