Canberra Potters

[Un]common Ground.

Bringing together internationally recognised artists and 2026 Canberra Potters Artists-in-Residence Paul Davis and Jacqueline Clayton, [Un]common Ground reflects decades of dedication, inquiry and passion for making.

While Paul and Jacqueline share histories of ceramic training in Japan and Australia, their practices are shaped by distinct personal and conceptual imperatives,offering an apt point of departure for the idea of [Un]common Ground.

Join us for the Opening Preview on Thursday 18 June, 6–7.30pm, with remarks by Minister Yamaguchi of the Embassy of Japan, Canberra.

[Un]common Ground
19 June – 19 July 2026

Canberra Potters Gallery
Watson Arts Centre
1 Aspinall Street, Watson
Entry free

Gallery hours
Tue–Fri, 10am–4pm
Sat–Sun, 10am–2pm
Closed Mon

Image: Paul Davis sake bottle, photo by Greg Piper

Introducing our new Artists in Residence and exhibiting artists, Paul Davis and Jacqueline Clayton.

Collaborating as Togei Studio, Paul and Jacqueline bring together decades of ceramic practice, teaching, material research and design. Their work reflects a deep engagement with clay, place, Eastern and Western ceramic traditions, and the relationship between functional objects and sculptural form.

Together, they have created ceramics for acclaimed restaurants including Quay, Bennelong, Yiaga and Noma Australia.

As part of their residency, Paul and Jacqueline will present their upcoming exhibition Uncommon Ground, hold a masterclass, Adaptive Studio Practice: Creating in a Changing Environment, and conduct an artist talk sharing insights into their practice, process and research.

We are delighted to welcome them to Canberra Potters and look forward to sharing more of their work, process and creative practice with our community.

New winter school holiday classes are here!

Keep young hands busy and imaginations flowing these school holidays with three new and playful clay workshops at Canberra Potters.
Young makers can create ceramic sound makers, explore the drama of raku firing, or dive into colour, sculpture and creative handbuilding. Each class is designed to encourage imagination, confidence and hands-on learning in a supportive studio.

Guided by experienced Canberra Potters teachers, students will learn new techniques, experiment with clay and create pieces to be fired and treasured.
Bookings are now open and places are limited.
�Explore the full Winter School Holiday
Program via the link .

www.canberrapotters.com.au/classes/holiday/

Clay Foundations: Objects of Meaning with Lia Tajcnar

This winter, explore the expressive possibilities of handbuilding in a playful and thoughtful class centred on ceremonial objects, textured surfaces and personal meaning.

Create candelabras, wall sconces, offering bowls or sculptural forms while experimenting with stamps, carving, slips and layered underglazes. Guided by Lia Tajcnar, this course invites creativity, experimentation and self-expression through clay.

Sunday 26 July 2026

Book now via our website.

Exhibiting Artist - Jacqui Keogh

Jacqui Keogh is one of the exhibiting artists in Bling Bling, now showing at Canberra Potters.

Her work embraces decoration, shine and character, creating pieces that feel both nostalgic and contemporary.Bling Bling features the work of Liz Crowe, Lee Nelms and Jacqui Keogh, bringing together a rich and playful exploration of surface, ornament and the vessel.

Now showing until 14 June 2026
Canberra Potters Gallery

Gallery Hours
Tue–Fri, 10am–4pm
Sat–Sun, 10am–2pm

Images: Anne Stroud

Term 3 classes are now open for bookings!

Winter is the perfect time to get creative, learn something new and connect through clay at Canberra Potters.

Our Term 3 program includes classes for kids, teens and adults, with options for beginners through to more experienced makers.

Kids Clay Class
Kids Wheel Class�
Kids Quirky Critters�
Homeschool Clay Class�
Pathways
Adult Class

Places are Limited, Click the Link below to book.

Children’s Term 3 Classes – Canberra Potters Welcome! Our new weekend opening hours are 10-2 Saturday + Sunday Visit Us | Term 3 class bookings open 27 and 28 May! Find out more

Artist in Focus – Sandie Johnston

This series is designed to honour the depth of talent within our community while inviting audiences to connect more meaningfully with the artists, stories and handmade work that define Canberra Potters.

Sandie Johnston creates functional stoneware tableware designed to be used, enjoyed and woven into everyday rituals.
Her work celebrates the beauty of handmade objects — pieces for shared meals, daily routines and simple moments of connection.

Using wheel-thrown and handbuilt techniques, Sandie balances refined forms with an organic sensibility. Woodfired with salt, each piece carries the natural markings of flame and atmosphere, making every vessel unique.
We are delighted to be stocking Sandie’s ceramics at the Canberra Potters Shop.

Shop opening hours:
Tue–Fri, 10am–4pm
Sat–Sun, 10am–2pm

NATION OF MAKERS

The Australian Government is developing a new National Cultural Policy.

Canberra Potters is one of nine members of the Australian Craft and Design Centres (ACDC) network, organisations across the country supporting professional design and craft practice.

Together we have lodged a joint submission calling for proper recognition and investment in Australia’s craft and design sector, skilled designers and makers working across this country who deserve a policy framework that matches their contribution.

Anyone can make a submission before 24 May.

www.nationofmakers.com.au

AusGov Office for the Arts
Tony Burke MP