What Makes a Good Potter?

Listen to former Blumhardt chair Brian Wood and ceramics expert Simon Manchester discuss Doreen Blumhardt, the history of pottery in Aotearoa, and what makes a pot good.

The Dowse has a longstanding relationship with Aotearoa's craft makers  and practitioners. In turn, this relationship is affirmed by the generous support of The Blumhardt Foundation.

Dame Doreen Blumhardt was a significant figure in Aotearoa craft, not only as an established potter, but as a constant advocate for the value of craft in art and education. Throughout her working life, Blumhardt constantly surpassed the limitations placed on her, both as a craft artist, and a woman. She represented New Zealand at a UNESCO arts conference in Europe,  was the Head of Art at Wellington Teacher's College, and helped establish the Crafts Council of New Zealand. Dame Doreen Blumhardt authored several books alongside Brian Brake, including the 1982 anthology, Craft New Zealand, since acknowledged as momentous in the establishment of a New Zealand modernist craft tradition.

Doreen Blumhardt's significant collection is on loan to The Dowse Art Museum.