Jessica Adams

Country: New Zealand
Field of Art: Ceramist
Website: jessicalucyadams.com
Instagram: @jessicalucyadams

Jessica Adams is a British ceramicist and weaver whose work beautifully bridges the gap between textile artistry and pottery. With a keen eye for surface design and texture, she incorporates intricate patterns into her wheel-thrown pottery, resulting in visually stunning and tactile pieces.

As she takes a six-month sabbatical, Jessica has dedicated her time at Driving Creek to deepening her exploration of form and function. She is particularly drawn to natural elements and traditional techniques, which she aims to integrate into her evolving body of work. This residency allows her to refine her processes and engage with new materials.

Suemi Chiba

Country: Australia
Field of Art: Ceramics
Website: chibasanceramics.com
Instagram: @chibasanceramics

Suemi Chiba is an Australian ceramic artist whose work explores the intersection between cultural heritage and modern design. She is known for her elegant wheel-thrown forms that balance artistic expression with functionality. Her approach is rooted in traditional techniques but embraces contemporary aesthetics through thoughtful glazing and surface decoration.

At Driving Creek, Suemi is focusing on experimenting with alternative firing techniques and pushing the boundaries of her artistic style. She is excited to draw inspiration from the natural beauty surrounding the residency and to collaborate with fellow artists to exchange ideas and techniques.

Abbie La Rooy

Country: UK/NZ
Field of Art: Ceramist
Website: abbielarooy.com
Instagram: @abbielarooy

Abbie La Rooy is a ceramic artist originally from the UK and now based in New Zealand. She has a strong interest in material exploration, working with a variety of clays—both commercial and locally sourced—to achieve unique textural effects. Her work ranges from fine porcelain to rugged stoneware, reflecting her experimental and inquisitive approach.

During her residency at Driving Creek, Abbie is delving deeper into glaze chemistry, natural clay deposits, and the ways different materials interact in the firing process. She hopes to refine her techniques and develop new ceramic bodies that speak to the environment she is working in.

Jill McNaughton

Country: New Zealand
Field of Art: Ceramics
Instagram: @jill.mcnaughton.54

Jill McNaughton is an Auckland-based ceramicist who has been working with clay for decades. Her work is deeply inspired by the natural beauty of New Zealand, incorporating elements of the coastal landscape into her pieces. From soft organic textures to bold sculptural forms, Jill's ceramics are a reflection of her deep connection to her surroundings.

Returning to Driving Creek after many years, Jill is taking this opportunity to reconnect with her artistic roots and explore new approaches to clay and firing techniques. Her residency will be a time of experimentation, reflection, and artistic growth.

Fiona Gates

Country: New Zealand
Field of Art: Ceramics

Fiona Gates is a New Zealand-based ceramicist with a keen interest in exploring the possibilities of texture and form. She draws inspiration from organic patterns, translating them into her work through intricate surface designs and natural glazes. Her pieces often blur the line between function and sculpture, creating dynamic, tactile experiences.

At Driving Creek, Fiona is focusing on alternative firing methods and experimenting with local materials. Her goal is to produce a body of work that reflects the environment and incorporates new techniques into her established practice.

Jacopo Cucci

Country: Italy
Field of Art: Ceramist
Instagram: @fango_ceramics

Jacopo Cucci is an Italian ceramist known for his deep connection to natural materials and his commitment to the traditions of ceramic artistry. His studio, "Fango," meaning mud, represents his appreciation for the raw and transformative qualities of clay. His work seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, exploring textures, glazes, and organic forms.

During his residency at Driving Creek, Jacopo is particularly interested in experimenting with locally sourced clay and alternative firing methods. He hopes to push his creative boundaries and gain inspiration from the lush landscapes of New Zealand while collaborating with fellow artists.

Ellie Woods - Leach Apprentice

Country: UK
Field of Art: Ceramist
Instagram: @elliewoodspottery

Ellie Woods is a ceramicist and the current Leach Apprentice at Driving Creek, where she is honing her craft in traditional wheel-throwing techniques. With a deep respect for craftsmanship, Ellie creates functional pottery with a timeless aesthetic, incorporating subtle decorative details that add depth and personality to her work.

As an apprentice, Ellie is immersing herself in all aspects of the ceramic-making process, from clay preparation to firing. She is particularly interested in wood-firing techniques and experimenting with natural glaze recipes. This residency offers her a space to refine her skills while learning from experienced mentors.