This is a slow, calm, and hands-on session where you will create your own vases, guided by award-winning New Zealand ceramicist Elena Renker. The workshop runs for 3 hours, including a tea break.
About the technique
Kurinuki means “to hollow out” or “to carve from a solid block of clay.” In this process, the potter uses tools such as spatulas to slowly remove clay, searching for form, natural tools like sticks, rocks, and found objects may be used to add character, mark making and textures resulting in unique, functional pieces.
Elena will guide you step by step through this slow, therapeutic processes, teaching you how to work intuitively with clay using your hands.
Session details
We will pause for a short break with tea and snacks to keep you going. Gluten-free and dairy-free options will be available.
The workshop takes approximately three hours in total. Once you are happy with your pieces, we will provide a box so your work can be safely taken by Elena to dry and be wood-fired in her kiln.
The final result will have some rich wood-fired textures. Up to two to three pieces will be fired per participant. Once firing is complete, the works will be returned to our gallery for collection.
Drying and firing will take approximately 4–6 weeks.
Why join?
This is a rare opportunity to learn and create your own ceramic work with one of New Zealand’s most respected ceramic artist.
Event Information
Date & Time: Sunday, 22 February 2026, 1–4 pm Location: Public Record Gallery Space 82 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland (Upstairs)
Price: $200 per person (Includes building one or two vases and one wall-hanging vase)
