Forty of the region’s artists will this weekend display pottery, paintings and everything in between for the annual Craft Potters Christmas Sale.
Craft Potters Nelson tutor Jolie Simpson joined the club after moving to the region from Australia a bit over a year ago.
“I have a pottery studio at home and went there for the social aspect,” Jolie says.
“I’m a teacher, so I could teach, learn, and be with other potters. It was, and still is, my place to settle in with a really great group of people.”
Jolie says there will be a range of mixed media on display this weekend, with many of their 40 members also creating other works of art.
“Lots of potters also do drawings, floral things, all sorts. There will be hand-built pieces and wheel-thrown work, and everything in between.”
She says the studio transforms into a gallery for the sale.
“I look forward to it. What I earn selling my pieces I like to spend, which is ridiculous, but there will be some brilliant Christmas presents.”
Jolie says it’s also a great opportunity to come and check out the space, and look into a class, which she promises are very social and fun.
“Many start out with classes and then fall in love with pottery. The sale is an incredible way to showcase their progress.”
Jolie will exhibit something a little different this year. After purchasing a tiny wheel, she has been creating miniatures, mostly tiny bowls and vases, all of which are hand-painted by her 17-year-old daughter.
“Her drawings are incredible; they are animation and have quite a personality.”
Craft Potters Christmas Sale is on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 November from 10am-4pm at the Ranzau Rd, Hope, base.
