Yasi, Owner & Instructor
Kia Ora ceramic enthusiasts!
I'm Yasi, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to Pottery Capital, a place where ceramic art is open and accessible to everyone.
We recently moved into this fantastic space on June 11, 2023, and my husband couldn't be happier about it! I am a full-time hand builder and dabble in wheel throwing as well.
My background is steeped in traditional ceramics used for ceremonial purposes and storing moon jars for rice wines. However, my modern pottery journey began in 2012 in California, and since then, I've collaborated with various studios in Dublin, Ireland, and Nairobi. My mentors have mostly been sculptors and non-production potters.
After moving to New Zealand in 2015 and taking a break to welcome my baby boy, I found my way back to pottery when he turned 4 years old. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm excited to share my passion with you.
Pottery Capital is not just a studio; it's a social hub where we offer workshops for hand building and wheel throwing classes.
As a tutor, I prioritize fun over perfection in my classes. Clay has a way of humbling us, and I encourage my students to embrace imperfections and take risks. Remember, creating pottery is a process, and you may not master it in one session—it's like learning to play the piano; practice makes progress!
Our philosophy at Pottery Capital revolves around building an inclusive community where everyone feels empowered and inspired to explore and learn. When you enroll in our classes or purchase ceramics made by our instructors, members, and local artists, you're supporting a small, independent brand.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of this journey. Let's create beautiful pottery together! xoxo
Our Team
Sam, Pottery Wheel Instructor
Hi, I'm Sam. My journey into pottery began during the final year of my Fine Arts degree, where I specialized in photography. Despite my love for capturing moments through the lens, I yearned for a more hands-on creative outlet. That's when I discovered pottery, and it felt like a breath of fresh air. Unlike the digital world of photography, pottery offered me a chance to connect with something real and tangible. Instead of spending hours editing photos on my computer, I found joy in shaping clay with my own two hands. It was a grounding experience that sparked my creativity in unexpected ways.
During my time at university, I not only delved deeper into my artistic practice but also shared my knowledge by leading tutorials for fellow students. These teaching experiences opened my eyes to the joy of helping others discover their creative potential.
Now, as an art technician at Burnside High School, I continue to explore the intersection of art and education.
Here at Pottery Capital, I'm thrilled to share my knowledge and enthusiasm for pottery with you. Whether you're a complete beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, my classes offer a supportive environment where you can explore your creativity and learn at your own pace.
Anu, Pottery Wheel Instructor
Hello, I'm Anu. Originally from Mumbai, I've been living in Christchurch for the past 10 years in search of tranquility. I have a passion for acquiring new skills, mastering them, and then moving on to the next challenge. However, working with clay has remained a constant in my life. I was introduced to clay art at a young age in Mumbai, and it has stayed with me ever since. Now, I'm eager to share my knowledge by teaching others. My main source of inspiration comes from the deep connection I feel with the earth, nature, and animal forms. While I've recently delved into sculpture, my true love lies in working on the pottery wheel.
Isabella, Pottery Wheel Instructor
Hi, my name is Isabella I am a 25 year old Canterbury based potter. I have been learning and creating ceramics for about 2 and a half years at Ata Ceramics. I’m currently working on producing and refining my own style of work. I live in the central city and enjoy spending time exploring the nightlife, being with friends and family and my community. I love teaching, especially beginner potters and always encourage people to have fun and create.
Saskia, Sculptural & Handbuilding Instructor
Hi I am a teacher aid at T.O.I Collective art school for children and teens. I do any form of art I can get my hands on and recently got back into doing clay. I love teaching and wish to share the fun of clay with whosoever is interested. My main interest are in making unusual and fantastical creatures with a mundane practical purpose such as planter pots who are fae folk or candle holders who are woman swimming through the bog with a curious snail in her head. I can make fake food better out of clay than I can if I baked it and I specialise in imagination.
Coral, Wheel Instructor
Hi my names Coral. I pretty much like any artsy activity. My goal is to make your pottery experience easy and fun! I am excited to be doing something that I love and look forward to share it with you!
Caleb, Wheel Instructor
Caleb initially started as a support +1 for his wife's pottery class and became a full time hobby. He bought his own wheel and kiln after 6 weeks course and is creating lovely functional wares. He has since been experimenting with all types of clay and exploring the magical world of glazing. You can see some of his works on display at the studio.
