Minna Graham
Location
About
Based in Central Victoria, Ceramicist Minna Graham works with functional ceramics, specialising in tea-ware. Upon completing a Diploma of Ceramics at the University of Ballarat in 2012, Minna was awarded the Brian McLellan Award for Outstanding Achievement. Her is work now featured in numerous galleries such as Craft Victoria and Sturt Gallery-School of Excellence in Arts, Design and Fabrication. Minna is a founding member and Director of Clayspace -Daylesford and Region Ceramics Collective from 2010-2018.
Having completed ceramic courses specialising in Karatsu teaware in Japan, Minna has also spent time learning traditional pottery and firing techniques in Myanmar, East Timor and Cambodia.
In 2014 Minna undertook a year of a Bachelor of Fine Arts majoring in Ceramics at Federation University. During the year Minna was awarded the Albert Coates Memorial Award for Excellence and was inducted into the Golden Key International Honour Society for high achievement in her field. Minna was awarded the INCA Award- Michael Hallam Award for Innovation in Ceramics in early 2018. More recently, Minna was the 2024 Featured Ceramic Artist at the Warrandyte Pottery Expo and won the Potters Choice Award in 2023. Minna was selected as a finalist for the North Queensland Ceramic Awards in 2024, as well as the Northern Beaches Environmental Art Award held at Manly Art Gallery and Museum, Sydney NSW. Minna continues her ceramics practice, creating sculptural vessels and tableware for a variety of galleries and competitions around Australia.
Artist Statement
Minna Graham presents a demonstration that offers an in-depth look at advanced throwing techniques and innovative surface treatment methods. Observe advanced throwing techniques- wedging, centring, throwing substantial quantities of clay, and using a thrown coil method to create large pieces.
The demonstration will cover innovative alteration techniques- cutting, darting, and rejoining create novel forms. Creating unique and captivating pieces, using Surface Expansion methods to enhance the textural qualities of the materials. Minna will demonstrate how she reuses throwing slurry and trimmings to create wild textures, as well as experimenting with various clay additives such as sand, sawdust, and other organic materials from the environment to produce rich, textured surfaces that add depth and intrigue.
Minna will explore tearing, cutting, and stretching techniques to maximise the potential of materials and generate vibrant and captivating pieces. Learn how to layer and combine surface treatments, throwing and altering techniques to create unique forms that showcase skills while stretching the limitations of the materials and imagination.