June 2025 Newsletter
Club Notes and Updates
It’s time to start planning for anagama! Photo: Mel Waite Photography
Get thinking about anagama!
Due to the success of last year’s anagama firing, our hosts, Graeme and June Houston, have graciously allowed us another firing on their farm in Horokiwi.
If you’ve heard of its wonders but don’t know anything about it (or even if you’re an old hand), join us on 4 June, 7 to 9 pm for our Anagama Information Evening. Mal S, Julie H, and Caz P will be presenting information such as the types of clay you must use, the shapes that suit these traditional Japanese firings, when WPA’s anagama-specific glazes will be available, how you can help out, and what to expect. They’ll even have some vessels from previous firings to spark your creative juices.
Sign up in HelloClub so we know how many people to expect.
Anagama calendar
4 June: Information evening
mid-August: Glazes available (we’ll let you know when they are on the floor)
31 August: Receiving Day
1 - 6 September: Loading
10 - 14 September: Firing
21 September: Unloading
26 September (TBC): Show and Tell
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Exciting updates in the library!
A sneak peek at the future online catalogue for the WPA library. Sure, it’s only one video right now, but eventually it will be all of our books, magazines, videos, AND the pottery collection!
As part of WPA’s ongoing improvements, our Librarian, Georgina P, is working towards creating an online catalogue of all the books, magazines, DVDs, and videos available for reference in our well-stocked library. This will enable members to search our materials for particular potters, authors, techniques, and so on, and then be guided to the physical location of the item.
Remember — the library is reference-only, so materials can’t be removed from WPA, but you can browse there to your heart’s content and even use the photocopier (or your phone’s camera) to copy articles of interest. For videos/DVDs, you’ll even be able to watch these online from your sofa at home.
The new catalogue will also include a photo of everything in our pottery collection, along with its maker’s mark — an invaluable source of inspiration and reference.
As you can imagine, this is a major project. Although it is relatively simple to import data from existing spreadsheets (thank you Elaine M and Vera B), scan a barcode, or enter an ISBN number, we will also be adding updated labels to spines, providing some of the more dog-eared dust jackets with a plastic cover, photographing any book covers that don’t automatically upload, and (probably) much, much more.
We’re expecting to hold a couple of sessions to work on these tasks sometime in the next month or two. We’d also like someone to do some Googling to find years of birth/death and place of birth for the potters whose works we have in our collection. If this kind of stuff is your jam and you’d like to be involved in helping, keep your eyes peeled for opportunities to help us — events will be posted in the usual places: Facebook Members’ page, IG, MMCU, and newsletters.
(If you want to research potters’ works in the collection, please email Admin directly at wellingtonpotters.info@gmail.com.)
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Left in the dark?
Regular attendees in the rooms will be aware of the recent electrical outages. There were several issues at play that meant wheels, kilns, kitchen appliances and more were non-operational, impacting regular classes and firings. We thank all of you who were affected by this and were patient and understanding as we worked to fix the problem.
I couldn't help myself. ;)
In short, a combination of faults — not least the failure of a connection in the electricity meter — contributed to the shemozzle.
As some of the floor-mounted power sockets have shorted out recently and are beginning to pull loose, the Committee is investigating a safer solution as well as creating a less cluttered wheel-throwing space.
Although the electricity has been restored, we still need to replace the aging main fuse box that connects the power source to our building. This will occur over the Christmas break to minimise downtime for the kilns.
A big thank you to Peter R for going into bat for us (spending hours on the phone… much of it ‘on hold’!!!) with the power company and four associated entities, and also to Brent, our electrician, for not leaving us hanging when we have issues like this.
Repairs and improvements like these are expensive and only possible due to your membership and other fees, so thank YOU, too, for your continued support of the studio!
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Ceramicus & Pop-up Market 2025
Ceramicus 2025 is in the works! Photo: Mel Waite Photography
Save the date!
Ceramicus 2025 & the Pop-up Market will be back at the Begonia House at the Botanic Gardens.
We’ve heard that members would like more time between anagama and Ceramicus, so our exhibition and market will be in November this year.
The key dates for your calendar are below (and also in Hello Club):
• Sun 2 Nov: Receiving day
• Weds 5 Nov to Sat 15 Nov: Exhibition open
• Sat 8 & Sun 9 Nov: Pop-up market
• Sun 16 Nov & Mon 17 Nov: Pot collection and pack down
Volunteers needed
Can you help out with any of the below?
• Pop-up market coordinator
• Opening night coordinator
• Marketing and promotion
• Graphic design (signage, catalog, certificates, social media tiles etc)
Get in touch with Kate via wellingtonpotters.events@gmail.com
Looking for convenor for 2026…
Kate is planning to step down as convenor after this year, so we are on the hunt for a new convenor. 2026 is a while away, however, it could be helpful to work alongside Kate this year to see how it works and to begin scoping new venues for 2026 (due to the uncertainty surrounding the Begonia House).
If you are interested get in touch with Kate via wellingtonpotters.events@gmail.com
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Glaze Club updates
Here’s a peek at what we’ve been up to of late.
Just some of the new glaze combos on the board, thanks to the Glaze Club.
Harris Tenmoku: Code Cracked?
After enough trial and error to fill a small library, we’ve finally nailed down the actual Harris Tenmoku glaze. Let’s just say it involved a lot of patience, several tests, and some serious maths wizardry.
Saying “So Long” to Gerstley Borate (Sort Of)
Our faithful old friend Gerstley Borate is getting pricier and scarcer. We’re busy testing alternative ingredients so we can still get those fabulously fluid results for many of the club glazes.
How Do I . . . ?
We’re storyboarding new educational glaze videos to help everyone understand how to glaze, minimise common glaze issues, and help keep our club glazes and glaze room in top order for community use. Keep an eye on the newsletter for more details.
A Potential New Glaze — To Test or Not to Test (We’re Testing!)
Our quest to expand our beloved club glaze lineup continues! Thanks to the club’s newly acquired book The Complete Guide to Mid-Range Glazes by John Britt, we’ve identified a new candidate we think may be worthy of permanent residency in the Glaze Club’s repertoire. Let the testing begin!
Clay Body Conundrums
We tested three different clay bodies from Nelson in hopes of finding a new domestic clay for the club. Alas, the perfect match still eludes us. But fear not — our quest continues! We’re nothing if not determined (some call it stubborn; we call it resilient).
Expanding Our Test Tile System
We continue to expand our new system in the hopes of making it easier, more organised, and more informative. (For example: What do those oxide washes look like? What happens if you stir a glaze for 10 seconds vs. 60 seconds?) This way, everyone can see the results, take notes, and get inspired.
More tiles = more knowledge = more fun.
Phase 2 of Our Test Tile System Has Begun!
If you’ve stopped by the studio lately, you may have noticed a new board and batch of tiles posted to the left of the Phase 1 test tile board. These test tiles demonstrate layering two different club glazes to see the unique effects each combination creates.
On every tile, you’ll see the base glaze labeled on the top left, and the layering (second) glaze marked on the top right.
For instance, one tile might show a base of Ivan Seafoam (dipped with a “3 Mississippi” count), followed by a second “3 Mississippi” count dip of Honey. Right next to it, you’ll spot the reverse combination — Honey as the base, with Ivan Seafoam layered on top.
A Friendly but Crucial Reminder
It’s absolutely essential to let that base glaze dry completely before adding the second glaze — especially if the base is darker than the one going on top. If the base glaze isn’t fully dry, you will contaminate the layering glaze bucket.
(And nobody wants a bucket full of mystery-swirl glaze — at least not when it’s unintentional!)
Bottom line: when in doubt, give it more time. Waiting those extra moments is well worth the final result and will continue supporting our community’s use of shared glazes.
Welcome new members!
Andrew L. | Catherine M. | Ellen W. | George W. | Jamie C. | Nadia F. | Ros W. | Sharon C. | Tabitha B. | Timothy H.
Andrew L. | Catherine M. | Ellen W. | George W. | Jamie C. | Nadia F. | Ros W. | Sharon C. | Tabitha B. | Timothy H.
DID YOU KNOW…?
It’s your final notice for cubbies!
CUBBY RENEWAL
Cubby fees were due on 31 May. If you haven’t paid your fees and we haven’t heard from you, your cubby will be emptied on Sunday 8 June.
If you have cancelled your cubby, and haven’t emptied and cleaned it yet. Please do so ASAP. All cancelled cubbies that still have stuff in them will be emptied on Sunday 8 June.
MOCHA STORAGE UNITS AVAILABLE
We have 2 x lockable mocha storage units available. $160 for 6 months (+ a refundable $30 key deposit).
If you would like to hire one please email wellingtonpotters.cubbies@gmail.com
Member’s Gallery: Raku Wrap Up
Saturday 24 May was the last firing of the season. Say what you like about Wellington’s weather, but we didn’t have to postpone a single firing this year. The various teams learn more every time and make tweaks to the firing and reduction processes to produce progressively improved results.
Many thanks go to Humphrey E for designing and engineering the steel gas line holders, and to Ingrid P who, with her usual superb efficiency, handled the administration and communications despite no longer being on the firing teams.
A lot of refurbishing and repair, as well as the sourcing of combustibles, will be needed before the 2025–2026 season can get underway.
Want to join in? Attend one or more of the refurb working bees to get a feel for what is required to run these exciting events.
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Thanks to Mel W., Baden V., and other Raku Club members for their photos of their raku firings through the seasons!
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.
PSAs from the Club Admin
WPA studio wheels for sale
We’re replacing some of our wheels, which means you now have a chance to purchase a used one directly from the studio.
From Wednesday 4 June to Wednesday 11 June, the wheels will be set up in the studio for testing. If you're happy to move forward with a purchase ($1650), fill out this form to add your name to the list. We’ll randomly select two people from the list. If you’re chosen, you’ll have one week to make the payment.
Each wheel comes with a new wheel head, as the originals had a history of wobble. We believe the issue has been resolved—but no guarantees—so the wheels are sold “as is, where is” and are for personal use only. Pickup from the studio once payment is received.
Questions? Email Admin at wellingtonpotters.info@gmail.com.
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Ceramics NZ
We’ve been backfilling our Ceramics NZ collection and discovered we need a copy of Ceramics NZ, Volume 6, Issue 1 (Autumn/Winter 2023). Unfortunately, it’s out of stock online—so if anyone happens to have a duplicate copy, may we please have it for the library?
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Spam update
It’s confirmed that the “giving my dead husband’s wheel away” email is a scam. Apparently, this has been circulating for ages, and the scammers are now targeting pottery organisations directly.
Side note: your trusty Admin loves trolling spammers. She managed to get “Alexis” (from our scam) to email NetsafeNZ directly with “her offer”! A crafty reply to “Alexis” mentioned, “I have a friend who would love the wheel—please email them at help@netsafe.org.nz.” Needless to say, our scammer isn’t the sharpest and didn’t catch on to the sting.
Of course, “Alexis” won’t actually get in trouble, but it’s nice to imagine they felt a bit of panic when they received the automated spam response.
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More tools are coming!
Keep your eye on the blackboard attached to Stack C in June. Hand Builders and Throwers alike will be ecstatic! A word of warning, though. These tools will require signing out and signing back. Also, don’t ‘hog’ them. Don’t borrow then leave them unused on your work space for extended periods. Others may wish to use them. Note the cleaning guides where applicable.
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Anagama clays available now
Anagama Capable Clays in stock at WPA: Witgert 11 (white), Witgert 116sf anthracite (grey), Feeneys White Raku. From 9 June, a limited number of 2kg sampler packs of the Witgerts and 2.5kgs (approx.) of the Feeneys will be available through the Hello Club shop. There will also be 2kg packs of Macs Speckled Buff BUT, this clay must be blended in equal proportions with either of the above Witgert clays to be acceptable for firing in anagama.
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Clean clay bags needed!
We’ve recycled all the clay and used up all the bags — which means it’s time for you to clean your un-holey Primo-Pro (clear) clay bags and donate them to the studio!
We’re looking for see-through bags only, please. You can stash your clean, dry bags just inside the pug mill room with the others.
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Ngā mihi!
Suggestion Box Updates
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 February’s meeting (click the “+” to expand).
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Paige (Education) will look into it.
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Noted. Julie and Peter to discuss as it is a big undertaking.
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We can ask! Paige (Education) will reach out to him.
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Thanks for the note. We'll get it sorted.
A Slice for June
Photo from riverford.co.uk
This one is from Julie H, from a recipe book in her arsenal. I found a similar recipe here while looking for photos.
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INGREDIENTS
• 170g grated cheese
• 200g grated carrots
• 140g porridge oats
• 1 tsp rosemary
• 1 egg
• 56g butter, melted
• Salt and pepperDIRECTIONS
1) Mix cheese, carrots, oats, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2) Beat egg and add with butter to mixture. Mix thoroughly.
3) Press into a 9” flan dish.
4) Bake for 20-30 minutes at 190C. Take from the oven when it is lightly browned and slightly crisp.
5) Serve with parsley sauce, potatoes, greens, and a home-made tomato sauce.
Upcoming WPA Classes & Events
Anagama Information Night
Wednesday 4 June| 7 - 9PM
Come and join us at our Anagama information evening to hear all about our annual anagama firing.
Whether you're a complete beginner to anagama or been there since Day 1, we’d love to have you at this information night. The Anagama Team will guide you through everything you need to know about the wood firing process, with samples on display to show how flame, ash, and high heat interact with different clays and glazes—or even unglazed surfaces!
Because the Anagama kiln reaches temperatures of 1300°C, it’s essential to use clay and glazes that can withstand such intense heat. We’ll cover exactly what materials are suitable and what to avoid during the session.
You'll also learn how to get involved in one of the most exciting parts of the process—volunteering to help load and fire the kiln. It’s a hands-on, elemental experience you won’t want to miss!
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Friday Demo Nights
Every Friday* | 6:30PM
The WPA welcomes you to Friday DEMO Night, a FREE evening *every Friday at 6:30 pm where you can BYO [optional] to watch another member demonstrate one of their Ways Of Working. Starts 6:30 SHARP to watch the Demo which will last from 20 minutes to an hour.
You will learn great BASICS and have QUESTIONS answered. e.g cutting clay edges, making thrown slabs, tile-making, decorating slip, colouring slip, reclaim tips, tool sharpening, etc.
If you also are INTERESTED in demonstrating one of your Ways of Working please contact Paige Jarman, Education portfolio holder, at wellingtonpotters.education@gmail.com.
Reminder, demos start at 6:30 sharp!
All demos are technically TBC. No need to sign up, just show up.
N.b *Every Friday except for allocated events e.g Friends and Family.
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Mocha Diffusion | 1-Day Workshop
Saturday 14 June | NOON - 5PM
Discover the art of mocha diffusion—create striking surfaces and refine your ceramic style with Vivian Rodriguez.
This hands-on ceramics course combines demonstration with active student participation and is open to artists of all skill levels and ceramic practices. Students will explore the historic technique of mocha diffusion, a decorative process that originated in southwest England and produces beautiful dendritic (tree-like) patterns through a chemical reaction between acid and alkali.
Under the guidance of instructor Vivian Rodriguez, participants will learn foundational recipes for creating the necessary slips and "mocha tea" (coloured acid solutions), along with methods for their application. The course will also emphasise how to design and adapt mocha diffusion patterns to complement each student's individual aesthetic and ceramic forms.
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Sgraffito | 1- Day Workshop
Saturday 28 June | NOON - 5PM
Unlock the art of sgraffito with Vivian Rodriguez!
This 1-day workshop combines demonstration with hands-on practice and is open to students of all skill levels. Explore Sgraffito—a decorative technique where you carve through colored slip to reveal contrasting clay beneath.
Instructor Vivian Rodriguez will share her personal slip recipes and demonstrate various application methods. You’ll learn to create and apply coloured slips, transfer your own designs onto slipped pottery, and carve using specialized tools. The course emphasizes design flow, texture, and how to integrate Sgraffito into your unique ceramic practice.
Community News
Muriel Hopper Hutt Art Awards
On now at Hutt Art through 8 June, 10AM - 4PM
WPA members Julie H. and Rachel K. were selected for this year’s show.
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Matariki Market at the Wharewaka
Saturday 14 June, 10am-3pm at the Wharewaka, 2 Taranaki Street (next to the Boatshed & St John’s)
Featuring Māori and Tangata Moana vendors, the market offers vintage clothing, designer bags, handmade taonga, original art, pounamu, and rongoā. WPA member, Kate Mac, will be there with some ceramic and stitched pieces.
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Open 10am–5pm, 7 days a week | Corner Norrie & Parumoana streets, Porirua, New Zealand
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Ema Frost: Kintsugi Workshops
Re-use, Re-Purpose, Beautify with Gold!!
Ema will be holding a KINTSUGI WORKSHOP on Sat & Sun 21st & 22nd June here in Wellington again at Toi Poneke and Hutt Art Society and she has limited spots available so make sure to book in early.
Click here for more information and to sign up.
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Jenn Leov at The Kilns at Te Horo: Exhibition
21 & 22 June, 10AM - 3PM
Jenn Leov, a ceramic artist based in Paekākāriki, is currently the resident potter at The Kilns at Te Horo, where she is preparing for an exhibition scheduled for June 21–22, 2025. During her residency, Leov has been exploring soda and salt firing techniques in the Hautere brick kiln, incorporating local materials such as pumice from Paekākāriki Beach. Her work also draws inspiration from the slip recipes of Mirek Smíšek and notes left by previous resident Thomas Baker.
For more information, visit The Kilns at Te Horo website.
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Links to other clubs’ current newsletters:
Ceramics New Zealand national news can be found here, with the Wellington / regional news here.
The latest Gear Homestead Woolshed Potters’ Newsletter can be found here.
The latest The Kilns at Te Horo Newsletter can be found here.
The latest Ōtaki Potter’s Newsletter can be found here.
Have some content for the newsletter? Email it to wellingtonpotters.info@gmail.com.
The deadline for the next newsletter is 23 June.
