Wellington & Western Districts report — July/August 2023

Fire & Clay

A Celebration of Woodfired Ceramics with ware from Jennifer Turnbull, Judy, Jenny Shearer and Mike Page along with a collection of their favourite pieces from past firings of theirs and other people work.
Gallery Open – Tuesday to Friday 10am to 3pm at Summerstone Gallery, 126 Kapiti Rd Paraparaumu

Otaki

Join the Otaki Pottery Club for an enchanting fusion of pottery, Art and sport at Star Glaze, a unique festival where the magic of Matariki comes alive. Delight in the stunning creations of emerging ceramists, explore interactive exhibits, and savor culturally-inspired food. With prestigious art awards, a mentorship program, and creative activities for all, embrace the spirit of Matariki and celebrate this unforgettable festival at Ōtaki-Māori Racecourse.

KMC Studios Flood Relief Fundraiser – Sunday 30th July, 2023 10 am- 2 pm

On July 30th, 2023, Karla Marie Ceramics studio in Te Aro, Wellington, in association with Ceramics NZ, will be buzzing with creativity and compassion as we come together to support the local clay and art communities devastated by the floods in the North Island earlier in the year. Explore a stunning selection of pottery crafted by talented artists from across the Motu and around the globe, available for sale and auction, Live Demos and a chance for hands-on tasters of working with clay. Join us for an unforgettable open day fundraiser, where you can make a difference while immersing yourself in the world of clay.

KMC Studios Matariki 2023

Karla Marie Ceramics are proud to present Two incredible Matariki workshops with acclaimed Uku/Clay artist Stevei Houkāmau

Sunday 16th July 2023!

https://lu.ma/matariki2023

Friday 21st July 2023!

https://lu.ma/matariki23

Stevei Houkāmau
Ngāti Porou, Te Whanau-a-Apanui

Stevei Houkāmau is a full-time artist based in Te Whanganui-a-tara, specializing in Uku (Clay). Houkāmau’s journey with uku began in 2011 at Toihoukura in Te Tairawhiti. In 2021, Houkāmau made the decision to pursue a career as a full-time artist.

As a full-time artist, Houkāmau has been dedicated to researching and developing the central concept of her practice, “Whakapapa.” This concept explores the connections and relationships that transcend time, space, and form. What sets Houkāmau’s practice apart is the distinctive carved surface designs, influenced by Tā Moko and Tātau. These designs not only enhance the curvature of the vessels but also serve as a visual language, embodying knowledge, genealogy, and connections to the Māori tradition of crafting, the migration from te Moana nui a Kiwa, and the kinship ties with Atua.

Recently, Stevei Houkāmau was awarded the Kiingi Tuheitia Portraiture award in 2023. Furthermore, she has an upcoming solo exhibition with Object Space later in the same year.

Reflecting on her practice, Houkāmau shared, “My dream was always to be a tattoo artist. Today, when I contemplate my work, I cherish the fact that I get to Ta moko Papatuanuku every day.”