Tina Thorburn is the production potter behind Clay by Tina and has been working full time as a ceramists since early 2016. Tina took up wheel throwing as a hobby in 2014 at the Carlton Arts Centre, Melbourne. And despite years of study and degrees in biomedicine, journalism and international development, Tina is happiest in the studio. Rather than working with one clay body or focusing on one particular glaze, Tina is always trying new clays, shapes, glaze techniques and designs. This body of work captures that with a mix of pastels that were inspired by the countryside she lives in, across two clay bodies. Californian born, Tina feels a strong affinity to the sandy clay which is imported from her home state. But now an Australian citizen, Tina feels at home with the white raku, an Australian made clay body. The pastel glazes have been applied with two different techniques across each clay body. All pieces are hand thrown from new and recycled clay and then bisque fired to 1000 degrees C. Then each piece is glazed and fired to 1300 degrees C and is therefore oven, microwave and dishwasher safe. In late 2016, Tina met with Daisy of Daisy Cooper Ceramics to discuss an idea and that conversation sparked Melbourne Ceramics Market. As a co-founder, Tina’s vision for the market was to connect the ceramic-lovers with new and emerging artists. By building a community of makers who enjoy the sharing the knowledge of the craft with their customers, Melbourne Ceramics Market has earned itself a spot as an event not to be missed. The Melbourne Ceramics Market exhibition continues at Boom until December 24th. Pieces are not listed individually on our website, however, if you are unable to make it into the gallery, phone enquiries are welcomed.
