6 August — 6 September 2026
Auckland Studio Potters:
Fire & Clay 2026
Opening & Awards Night: Thursday 6 August • 5:30 - 7:30PM
Presented by Auckland Studio Potters, Fire and Clay is an annual exhibition celebrating the creativity, skill, and diversity of contemporary ceramics from across their membership. This highly anticipated exhibition showcases outstanding work from emerging, established, and professional ceramic artists, highlighting the breadth of practice within New Zealand ceramics today.
Claire Preen, Trickster, 2025. Winner of Fire & Clay 2025. Image courtesy of Auckland Studio Potters.
Founded in 1961, Auckland Studio Potters is one of New Zealand's largest and most active pottery and ceramics organisations. Dedicated to fostering excellence in ceramics through education, community, and exhibition opportunities, the society supports makers at all stages of their creative journey.
Fire and Clay provides a platform for members to exhibit their finest work, offering visitors the opportunity to experience a rich variety of ceramic expression—from functional ware and sculptural forms to innovative contemporary practice. Selected and judged by renowned ceramic artist Bronwynne Cornish, Fire and Clay 2026 promises an inspiring exhibition that celebrates both tradition and innovation in clay.
Bronwynne Cornish. Image supplied.
About Bronwynne Cornish
Auckland Studio Potters is delighted to welcome acclaimed ceramic artist Bronwynne Cornish as the selector and judge for Fire & Clay 2026.
Widely regarded as one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most influential ceramic artists, Bronwynne has spent more than five decades pushing the boundaries of clay through her distinctive sculptural works, installations, and ceramic storytelling. Her work has been exhibited extensively throughout New Zealand and internationally, and is held in major public and private collections including Te Papa Tongarewa, Auckland Museum, The Dowse Art Museum, and The Arts House Trust.
Known for her imaginative approach, rich symbolism, and ability to weave together references from nature, mythology, history, and everyday life, Bronwynne has inspired generations of ceramic artists through both her creative practice and her years as an educator.
Bronwynne is looking forward to seeing the breadth, creativity, and diversity of work produced by Auckland Studio Potters members. Her deep knowledge of ceramics, combined with her passion for innovation and artistic expression, makes her an exceptional choice to judge this year's exhibition.
Events & Public Programme
Opening Celebration & Awards Night
Thursday 6 August • 5:30 - 7:30PM