Above Image: SA Artist Shane Connery of ES ceramics, Thebarton
The 2020s kicked off with the world stuck inside, but consequently, we started sharing our passions online, slowing down, and appreciating tactile creativity. In recent years, a stroll through the city would see young people sewing in parks, knitting outside cafes and working on an inspiring list of hobbies.
Clay-work, pottery and ceramics fit neatly within this wholesome revival of hands-on hobbies, and The Australian Ceramics Association is putting together a country-wide weekend that embraces the art. Ceramic artists across Australia are opening their studios to the public on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November. In SA, four studios will open their doors for rare behind the scenes looks at their crafts.
Artist Shane Connery will be opening Thebarton studio ES Ceramics, where work-in-progress keep cups, tableware and custom ceramics will all be on show. You’ll be able to pop in, ask questions, and chat with the in-house ceramicists. Similarly, John Ullinger of John Ullinger Studio Ceramics in Mile End and Jane Robertson of Jane Robertson Ceramics Studio in Nairne are opening their spaces for the two days. Simone Linder-Patton is also opening her newly refurbished studio in Birdwood. The studio will have live wheel-throwing demonstrations alongside a curated studio gallery.
If you’re curious to see what goes on inside these studios, if you’re looking to get into the craft, or if you’re after some masterfully-crafted new ceramics for your home, these open days are for you.
Warehouses tucked between city high-rises, garages in the suburbs, remote farm sheds, all of these spaces will come alive in early November. In South Australia, you’re encouraged to follow the SA Clay Trail, and visit all four open studios across the weekend.
“Visitors are looking for a hidden experience,” one artist said. “We held mini workshops, plus had studio members on the wheels so visitors could watch.”
Minna Graham from Daylesford said, “I often find I have more authentic exchanges with people who have taken the time to come and visit me. They ask all sorts of questions that you wouldn’t normally get in a chance encounter in somewhere like a market. I have gotten to know a lot of my local community, neighbours that had no idea that I was here with my studio and arts practice before they saw the sign and came to visit.”
The event is run by The Australian Ceramics Association, now in its 70th year. The not-for-profit organisation supports ceramic artists through education, promotion and connection, while publishing The Journal of Australian Ceramics.
With over 170 participating ceramicists, Australian Ceramics Open Studios is the country’s largest national open studio event. You can explore the Open Studios Directory to find local studios and plan your weekend. Entry is free, family-friendly, and a unique opportunity to take home a handmade piece with a story to go with it.
Australian Ceramics Open Studios
Where: Across SA
When: Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November
For more information, click here.
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