Meet Monica - Founder of Salamat Ceramics.
Based in Ojai, California, ceramic artist Monica Galan creates pieces that feel deeply rooted in gratitude, nature, and everyday life. As the founder of Salamat (“thank you” in Tagalog), her work blends softness, texture, and intention in a way that feels both timeless and personal. In this conversation, Monica shares how motherhood has reshaped her creative process, the beauty she finds in slowing down, and the late-night studio sessions bringing her newest ideas to life.
Tell us a little about you — who are you, where are you based?
I’m Monica Galan- I live in Ojai, Ca
We love your work! Found you at West Coast Craft - We’re curious, what first pulled you toward ceramics? First piece you ever made?
Thank you :) I had moved into my partner’s home in Orange County and was really searching for a creative outlet, something that could offer both solitude and a sense of community. Ceramics naturally became that space for me, I took a few classes and never looked back! My first piece was a bowl/cup…ya know a beautiful wonky thingy.
For those discovering Salamat for the first time, tell us… what does the name and brand mean to you?
“Salamat” means “thank you” in Tagalog. As a first-generation Filipina, gratitude has always been at the heart of my work. When I first started making ceramics, I would gift pieces to strangers and neighbors as a way of sharing appreciation… something small to remember me by or simply to brighten their day at that moment.
So what does a day in your life look like for you right now as a creator and newer mom?
A true dance that’s constantly evolving, but one that feels beautifully structured at the moment. My 2.5-year-old son, Leo, is either at school or with our nanny in the mornings, which gives me space to balance motherhood, ceramics, and my fractional work for a sunscreen company.
Depending on whether he naps, I can usually squeeze in some studio time midday. But I really try to be as present with him as possible, so when I’m momming, I’m MOMMINGGG - playing, chasing, drawing, burning food, all the things. I used to try sketching while we colored together, but I stopped forcing it.
Now, I carve out intentional studio time after Leo goes to bed at least two nights a week, over the weekends, and dedicate at least one full day solely to being in the studio. I’ve learned how important it is to create boundaries around this time too, because there will always be something else pulling at my attention. I’ve also learned to be really mindful of my energy, time, and attitude, because no matter what, I have to show up the next day fresh and bright for Leo. Some nights I’ll fall asleep putting him to bed, wake up around 11pm, and head straight into the studio because something needs tending to. I’ll work until 1am, then try to go to bed, but I’m unable to fully shut my brain off — thinking about glazes, shapes, and imagining new pieces and forms. Mommy tired haha!
Where do you draw inspiration from?
I’ve always been deeply inspired by nature. Natural forms, textures, and the subtle details. I’m constantly in awe of the layers of a eucalyptus tree, weathered rocks, or the way light hits a surface and creates shifting shadows. I also enjoy playing with the feeling of time, creating pieces that feel like a blend of different eras, as if they could exist both in the past and the present at once.
Any projects or newness you are dreaming up in your work?
I’ve been really focused on interiors and expanding into more custom, one-of-a-kind pieces for the home - higher-end vessels, lighting, kitchenware and tile work. I’m currently working on a large order for Lulu and Georgia while also developing a new work for select retailers and sprinkling in some fun kitchenware for my online store.
How has becoming a mother shifted the way you move through your process?
Becoming a mother has made me much more present in everything I do. Like I mentioned before, when I’m with Leo, I’m really with him. It’s made me realize how precious time truly is. I feel that same gratitude for the time I get to create, it feels like such a gift to have space for yourself and to express yourself creatively.
I think motherhood has made me both tighter and more forgiving with my work, which sounds contradictory, but somehow both are true. I pay closer attention now and take the extra step when something needs it, while also learning to be gentler with myself if a piece doesn’t turn out the way I imagined.
We are so grateful to have you in the Minga community! We’re curious, what are your favorite Minga products and how do you use them?
I wear a lot of hats and the Karina Wool Cowboy Hat is my absolute fav. I wear it on the town for a night out, running errands, beach, roadtrips, honestly whenever I get the chance it goes with pretty much everything! Love a good hat, makes me feel good!
Where can we find you next? How can we keep in touch with you? IG/ Website etc?
I don’t have any shows on the calendar, but will most likely be doing Deck the Halls in Ojai! A cute holiday market that Shelter Social Club has put on for years at the Ojai Ranch Inn!
Instagram - Salamat Ceramics
Website - Shop update June 24th
