History in brief
Artist's Personal Statement:
A little bit of history: My passion for art started as a child, then in teenage years fascinated by all mediums, I pursued ceramic sculpture while attending Northcote College, Auckland. 'Art' was always my favourite subject. Married in 1973, and two children later, I managed to establish myself as a professional potter in HawkesBay in the early 1980s, and happy to say I have had a varied and interesting career ever since . In April 1982, I was pleased to be the recipient of a National Ceramic Award, during the ‘Ceramics 82’ symposium in Auckland. Later, that same year I also developed an export market for my replica pottery houses in Hawaii, which generated a certain amount of media attention. ‘Shocked’ best describes my feelings, however, when asked to take part in a current affairs program to air on nationwide television. 1983 was another amazing year, having one of my unique New Zealand pottery houses presented to Princess Diana, the late Princess of Wales, during the Royal New Zealand Tour in 1983. To have it presented at Government House by the Governor General at that time, Sir David Beattie, was an honour indeed. The resulting thank you note from the Princess, remains a treasured memento. In three short years, my professional career had got off to a great start.
Mid-way through the 1990s, however, my ceramic career came to an abrupt halt, with the discovery of my brain tumour. Following brain-surgery, the next two years in recovery were a little challenging. But, this period also marked the beginning of my painting, and discovery of my new-found talent to write... With much encouragment, I managed to put my recovery experience into words. The short story, that evolved, was titled "Thank You Mr Eiffel", and was fortunate to have it published in the Readers Digest August 2001 edition. My story went International, and to my complete surprise, two weeks following publication, my story jointly topped a poll taken on 30,000 of the magazine’s subscribers. This extrordinary event gave me a wonderful boost. I'm now convinced that something good can come out of something bad. My painting sustained me until I gradually got back to my pottery.
Exhibitions, appearances on National television, magazine articles, and speaking engagements kept me busy over the ensuing years. (For more detailed information, click on 'Bibliography'on the menu). Invitations to exhibit from International Galleries has been a little overwelming at times. I have listed a number of current supporting New Zealand galleries below. It is gratifying to have a renewed demand for my ceramic work. And, though I continue to be busy making older style NZ houses, and working on the odd commission, I am currently enjoying working on some fun new lines... Quirky houses, lovable dogs, and humanised horses. We all need a bit of fun in our lives. Particularly at this difficult Covid time. I hope you enjoy.
"Update"
My husband and I have made a permanent move to Kohimarama, Auckland, where I have set up another home studio. Currently I have two supporting galleries in Auckland, but hoping for more. I am loving being back in the place I grew up.
Supporting Galleries:
'Il Collezionista' Galleria' Barberini, Rome, Italy Southern Nevada, USA."
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