August 2026 Newsletter
Club Notes and Updates
Friends & Family Night is looking for a new host and other Volunteer opportunities
#1: We need a new Friends and Family Night host!
Long-time ‘Friends & Family’ host Christine Winbush.
A huge thank you to Christine W!
For many years, Christine has generously hosted our monthly Friends & Family Night — a warm and welcoming presence who has kept these evenings running smoothly. He mihi nui ki a koe, Christine. Thank you!
Christine is stepping back from the role, and we're looking for a volunteer (or small team) to step in and ensure this popular event keeps running.
When: the third Friday of every month, 5–9PM
The role is fairly hands-off but important:
• Welcoming/signing in members and guests
• Managing the space as needed
• Keeping an eye on health and safety
• Making sure the studio is left clean and tidy
It would be great to have 2–3 people sharing the responsibility across the year. If you're keen, get in touch at wellingtonpotters.events@gmail.com.
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#2 and #3: Help prep the library for new flooring!
Something we've been planning for a while is finally happening — the library is getting new lino, and the mezzanine refurbishment has given us the push to get it done.
We need hands to carefully move everything out of the library ahead of the work starting 3 August. You don't need to be able to lift heavy things, though a couple of strong arms will be needed for the empty shelves.
Move out day is 2 August from 9AM - finish. You don’t have to sign up, but signing up helps Admin give you volunteer credit where credit is due.
Can't make Sunday? We're moving everything back in on Wednesday 5 August from 5:30PM.
Note: Studio space will be reduced 2–5 August. CEC classes and Throwing Lidded Vessels have priority during class times — check the calendar before coming in.
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#4: Sell (or give away) the blue coffee table!
We need a FB Marketplace/TradeMe savvy member to list our blue coffee table! It's a solid, sturdy piece that just needs a new home. List it as free or at a minimum price, run the auction in whatever way you see fit.
If collecting from the rooms, you’ll need to manage that process. Do NOT share the door code with the public, and please let Admin know you're on it (wellingtonpotters.info@gmail.com) so we don't end up with multiple listings.
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Anagama Countdown
Anneke Borren unwraps her work at Receiving Day. Photo by melwaitephotography.co.nz
Anagama Receiving Day is just around the corner.
Here are the things you need to do to join the fun!
Make, bisque-fire, and (optionally) glaze your items:
The Anagama FAQ found on the HelloClub home page contains all the information you need to know including what you can and can’t put in an Anagama firing, as well what you need to do to drop your items off at Receiving Day.
Online copies of Receiving Day forms can be downloaded from the FAQ and here.
Anagama glazes are now available in the glaze room and hard-copy Receiving day forms can be found on the sign-in desk.
To submit items to the firing:
Sign up to Receiving Day by Sunday 23 August.
Be ready to deliver your well-packed items along with your Receiving day form on Sunday, 30 August, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (please note the earlier finish time - we won’t be hanging around for stragglers).
To volunteer for Loading and Firing shifts:
Sign up to Receiving Day by Sunday 23 August
THEN - answer an email questionnaire you’ll receive on Monday 24 August. Ingrid P has limited time to create the roster so please answer this questionnaire ASAP. She aims to circulate the completed roster by Wednesday 26 August.
To volunteer to help on Receiving Day: Sign up to Receiving Day by mid-August. Your answers in HelloClub will help Ingrid determine who can help on the day and people will be advised if they’re needed in mid-August.
SO…. If you want to be involved, sign yourself up to Receiving Day immediately, read the Anagama FAQ for requirements and required submission forms, and keep an eye on your inbox around Sunday 24 August and answer the Loading & Firing questionnaire as quickly as you can.
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Guest Artists event registrations are LIVE … plus a NEW September Class!
Rick Rudd | Potluck and Artist Talk
Friday 4 September October, 6:00 - 9:00PM
Join us the evening before his workshop for an informal talk with Rick Rudd — potter, collector, and founder of Quartz, Museum of Studio Ceramics in Whanganui, the only dedicated studio ceramics museum in Aotearoa. Hear Rick speak about his practice, his work, and the ideas that drive it.
We're making a night of it — bring a dish to share for a potluck supper beforehand. Entry is by donation ($10 to start, options to donate more closer to the event), with all proceeds going to the Quartz Museum. This is a unique opportunity to share a meal and spend an evening with one of New Zealand's most significant figures in studio ceramics.
Learn more about Rick Rudd here and the Quartz Museum here.
NOTE: the rooms will be closed to personal work during this time.
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Rick Rudd | Teapots
Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, 10:00AM - 4:00PM
Wellington Potters' Association is thrilled to welcome Rick Rudd — one of New Zealand's most celebrated studio potters, Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and maker of some of the most iconic sculptural teapots in the country.
Over two days, Rick will guide you through pinching and coiling a teapot in his distinctive style, with tips and techniques you can carry into your own hand-building practice. You'll leave with a hand-built teapot and a deeper understanding of sculptural form.
Please note: The main studio (including mezzanine) will be closed from 9AM–5PM on both days of the workshop.
This workshop is open to members of WPA, Ōtaki Pottery Club, and Gear Woolshed Potters.
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Gregory Hamilton Miller | Japanese Pottery, Aesthetics and Value
Thursday 24 September, 7:00 - 9:30PM
Gregory Miller trained under Living National Treasure Shimaoka Tatsuzo in Mashiko, Japan, and later researched the relationships between potters and their communities there for his PhD in Japanese Anthropology — a rare combination of practical and academic experience.
This evening presentation kicks off Gregory's visit to WPA, where he'll also be leading two one-day workshops in October: one on Japanese hand-building techniques and one on Japanese throwing techniques. For the talk, Gregory will trace how Japanese pottery style and value have been shaped by history, politics, and economics, with a particular focus on the Tea Ceremony and the lasting influence of teamaster Sen no Rikyu. He'll also explore key Japanese aesthetic concepts — wabi-sabi, fukinsei, yūgen, mono no aware, and others — and how they appear in the work of contemporary Japanese potters.
All members are invited to join! Although this event is free to attend, please RSVP as space is limited. NOTE: the rooms will be closed to personal work during this time.
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Japanese Handbuilding Techniques with Gregory Miller | 1-Day Workshop
Saturday 10 October, 9:30AM - 4:00PM
Gregory Miller brings a deeply considered approach to teaching rooted in the Japanese concept of minarai — learning by watching and doing. This one-day workshop is an opportunity to experience Japanese hand-building traditions first-hand.
The day will cover a range of techniques including coil-built teacups and bowls, kurinuki (carving form from a solid block of clay), and slab techniques. Gregory teaches by example and works at the pace of the group, so students of all levels are welcome.
Note: this class will be held in the mezzanine space. The main studio will be open to personal work during this time.
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Japanese Throwing Techniques with Gregory Miller | 1-Day Workshop
Sunday 11 October, 9:30AM - 4:00PM
This one-day workshop is an opportunity to experience Japanese throwing traditions first-hand. The day will cover a range of techniques including throwing off the hump, turning, and altering forms focusing on asymmetry. Gregory teaches by example and works at the pace of the group, so students of all levels within the prerequisite range are welcome.
Note: this class will be held in the main studio. The main studio (including mezzanine) will be closed to personal work during this time.
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New September Class! Plates w/ Vivian Rodriguez | 2-Part Workshop
Saturday 19 September, 9:00AM - 4:30PM and Saturday 26 September, 12:30 - 4:00PM
Ever dreamed of making your own dinner set? Get started on it with Vivian Rodriguez in this 2-part workshop!
Designed for wheel throwers looking to learn or perfect the skills needed to design, throw, and trim plates (and by extension, platters), this workshop combines demonstration and hands-on practice across two sessions: one full day of throwing and a half-day of trimming. All levels of throwers are welcome, however students MUST be able to centre and work at the potter’s wheel unassisted.
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Waiting for a cubby?
Everyone that joined the cubby waitlist before 1 June has been emailed! There are 23 people that haven’t replied. There are a small number of extra small, medium and glaze room cubbies available so please check your spam folders if you’re waiting on a cubby.
You can check where you are on the waitlist here. If you’ve missed an email, get in touch via wellingtonpotters.cubbies@gmail.com
DID YOU KNOW…?
The library is always growing
Book of the Month: An Illustrated Dictionary of Ceramics
This month we're spotlighting An Illustrated Dictionary of Ceramics by George Savage and Harold Newman — a handy A–Z reference covering thousands of terms for techniques, glazes, forms, styles, and shapes. It also includes an introductory list of English and Continental European factories with their dates and marks — handy if you're identifying an older imported piece, though it won't help with marks from NZ potters. It's the book to reach for when you hit an unfamiliar term in a workshop or want to look up the proper name for a technique or form.
Our catalogue is deeper than many members realise! Use this link as an excuse to browse from your phone or computer.
And if you don't find what you're after, you can nominate a book for the collection any time! Email your recommendation to Admin at wellingtonpotters.info@gmail.com.
Member’s Gallery: Anagama Results
Time to get excited about Anagama!
To get you all ready for this year’s anagama firing, here are some beautiful results from previous firings. I’ve noted the artist where known, please shoot me (Admin) and email if I haven’t credited your work below (or I’ve mis-credited it) – I can change it at any time.
If you haven’t started making yet, there is still time! All you need is some high-fire clay and it to be bisqued by 30 August. (And sign up for Receiving Day, of course.) You’ve got 4 weeks!
All photography from Mel Waite. Thank you, Mel!
Is there something you’ve made that you are particularly proud of? If so, please email your photos (and descriptions, if you’d like) to wellingtonpotters.info@gmail.com.
Suggestion Box
Thanks for your suggestions in the suggestion box! Believe it or not, the suggestion box is NOT a black void of notes from you all. Suggestions get read, discussed, and logged at the Committee Meetings. Below are the suggestions and outcomes from September’s meeting (click the “+” to expand).
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Yes, this is true! Unfortunately people often put too-wet clay on the overnight bats (Stack C – if you can pour your clay it is TOO WET), and the goal is to replace the wedging bats this summer. We’re also looking into stones for the overnight bats – instead of plaster. Stay tuned!
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Yes, this is also true! There is signage up to remind people of this, but also consider this item a public service announcement to clean the extruder after use.
PSAs from the Club Admin
Short and sweet this month. Which is good, because the rest of the newsletter is chokka! 🙂
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Clay Wrangling
While our regular clay wrangler is out, our Studio Tech (Bella) is stepping in! This means that delivery days will be shifted to fit to her working schedule. Unless otherwise notified:
Orders received by 5PM Saturday → delivered by 2PM Monday
Orders received by 5PM Wednesday → delivered by 2PM Thursday
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Anagama glazes are ready!
The anagama glazes are ready and in the glaze room for your use. We have Milky White, Shino, and Wood Ash for your glazing pleasure. They are clearly marked. Be sure to stir well before use!
They will be in the glaze room until 27 August.
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Ngā mihi nui!
Pastry for August
Recipe and photo from thedebtist.com
Bostock a French pastry kind of similar to French toast or eggy bread – but also nothing like it. This recipe comes to us via Julie Han. from thedebtist.com. Booze is optional and I’ve noted logical substitutions where appropriate.
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INGREDIENTS
Orange Syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• Grated zest of 1 tangerine (or orange)
• OPTIONAL: 2 tbs Triple Sec (or any other orange liqueur)Almond Cream (Frangipane)
• 1 3/4 cups sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• OPTIONAL: 2 tbs Grand MarnierBostock
• 8 slices of Japanese milk bread or brioche, about 1/2 inch thick, can be day-old/stale
• Boysenberry jam (or other jam)
• OPTIONAL: Confectioner’s sugarDIRECTIONS
Orange Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, juice, and zest and bring to a simmer, while constantly stirring.
When the sugar has dissolved, remove from the heat.
Stir in the Triple Sec and allow to cool to room temperature.
Almond Cream (Frangipane)
Combine 1 cup of the sliced almonds, the sugar, and the salt in a food processor and process until finely ground. Reserve 3/4 cup of the sliced almonds for the topping.
Add the eggs and butter to the food processor and continue to process until a paste forms.
Transfer to a bowl and stir in Grand Marnier.
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, or up to three days.
Bostock
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Arrange the brioche toasts on a baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, thoroughly soak the toasts with the syrup until they are very moist.
Spread with a thin layer of jam.
Follow with a thicker layer of almond cream. Think double the later of the jam, or more, because there can never be too much almonds.
Top with the remained 3/4 cup of sliced almonds.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until deep golden brown. The cream should have caramelized and the almond slices should have toasted.
Enjoy!
August WPA Classes & Events
Library Move-out/Move-in
Move out: Sunday 2 August, 9:00AM - finish
Move in: Wednesday 5 August, 5:30PM - finish
The library is getting new vinyl flooring! This is something we've been planning for a while, and the mezzanine refurbishment has given us the push to get it done.
We need help carefully moving everything off the library floor, including all books and the collection on the shelves, ahead of the work on 3 August. You don't have to be able to lift heavy things to join in, but we'll need a couple of strong arms for moving the shelves when they are empty.
Can't help out on Sunday? We'll be moving stuff back into the library on Wednesday 5 August starting at 5:30PM.
Note: Studio space will be reduced from 2 to 5 August while the library is clear. CEC classes and "Throwing Lidded Vessels" will get priority during class times. Check the calendar for the schedule.
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Throwing Lidded Vesels w/ Tanaya Shirsikar
Tuesdays 4 & 11 August | 6:00M - 9:00PM
In this 2-part course, Tanaya Shirsikar will guide participants through the process of making a lidded vessel.
Experience required: This course is aimed at intermediate throwers, but "low" intermediates are welcome. If you can centre at least 300g and throw any specific shape with reasonable consistency, you have what it takes!
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Clay Club
Tuesday 18 August | 10:00AM - 1:00PM
Join the Clay Club and dive into the world of clay recycling!
Discover how clay can be reused again and again — you’ll get hands-on experience with the recycling process, learn about grog and its benefits, explore different clay types and firing temperatures, and even operate a pug mill to make your own recycled clay (available for members to purchase). No experience needed, and your time can count toward volunteer hours!
Clay Club generally meets once a month on a Tuesday (for three hours) — also known as Cake Club day! (We're trying to work Saturdays back into the rotation, events TBC.) Thanks to our upgraded recycling system, gloves and masks aren’t required anymore. Just wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit muddy.
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Friends and Family Night
Friday 21 August | 5:00 - 9:00PM
Friends & Family is now full, but we encourage you to sign up on the waitlist!
We’ve got the waitlist running, so if you are one of the first 3-4 people on it, expect to join in! Spots often open up at the last minute, and the waitlist becomes our notification list when they become available — stay flexible and you’ll likely get lucky!
If you’re already booked and your plans change, please cancel as soon as possible so another member can take your spot.
Are you a frequent “Friends and Family” attendee? We need a new host! See the first article in the newsletter for details.
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Anagama Receiving Day
Sunday 30 August | 10:00AM - 2:00PM
Want to submit your pot/s to our Anagama firing?
Receiving Day is happening Sunday 30 August with drop off running from 10am until 2:00pm (note earlier finish time than previous years). For full instructions, submission form, and flow chart of the process, please refer to the Anagama FAQ here.
You must SIGN UP to this event by 23 August. This will help speed up the drop off process on Sunday AND ensure you get an invitation to the loading and firing shifts. If you can't attend on Sunday, be sure to sign up regardless (so we know to look for your work) and you'll need to find someone to bring your pots along in person.
Community News & Events
Have some content for the newsletter? Email it to wellingtonpotters.info@gmail.com.
The deadline for the next newsletter is 22 August.
September’s newsletter will be an email-update only, sent directly to members. We’ll be back in October!
