About Valley Potters Exhibitions

Exhibiting with Valley Potters

Exhibitions are at the heart of Valley Potters, providing members with the opportunity to share their work with the public and celebrate the diversity of ceramic practice within our community. We aim to hold at least two exhibitions each year, offering members a supportive and professional platform to showcase their work alongside both experienced and emerging ceramic artists.

Who can exhibit?
Exhibitions are open to all financial members of Valley Potters, and we encourage participation from potters of every level. Whether you are just beginning your ceramics journey or are an established maker, our exhibitions provide a welcoming space to present your work.

Annual Exhibition
The highlight of our exhibition calendar is the Annual Exhibition. A guest judge is invited to select award winners, with prizes presented at the official opening. This event not only celebrates excellence in ceramics but also brings our community together to recognise and encourage the creative achievements of our members.

Award Criteria

Valley Potters Annual Exhibition Awards

Each year, Valley Potters recognises excellence, creativity, and innovation in ceramics through a series of sponsored awards. An exhibit can receive only one award, though special mentions may also be acknowledged.

1. Lisbeth Duncan Award – Sponsored by Fired Up Kilns ($500 Voucher)

Awarded to the most outstanding work in the exhibition.
Criteria: Open to all forms and functions, this award honours a fully resolved piece that demonstrates technical skill, a clear artistic direction, and a confident grasp of the medium.

Note: This is no longer an acquisition prize; artists may sell their work.

2. Ruth Petersen Award – Sponsored by Colin Petersen ($200 Cash)

Honouring the spirit of Ruth Petersen, who embraced innovation and creative exploration.
Criteria: Presented to an artist who demonstrates a willingness to challenge their skills, experiment with new ideas, and explore fresh ways of expressing their creativity.

3. Functional Award – Sponsored by Northcote Pottery ($200 Voucher)

Celebrating ceramics that unite practicality and artistry.
Criteria: Recognises work that balances utility with aesthetic appeal, creating pieces that are both functional and visually striking.

4. Sculptural Award – Sponsored by Walkers ($200 Voucher)

Acknowledging creativity in form and spatial awareness.
Criteria: Awarded for exceptional three-dimensional design, showcasing innovation, strong composition, and striking visual impact.

5. Thrown Award – Sponsored by Australian Pottery Supplies ($200 Cash)

Highlighting excellence in wheel-thrown ceramics.
Criteria: Recognises skilled manipulation of clay on the wheel to produce finely crafted, balanced forms that also convey expression, narrative, or emotion.

6. Surface Decoration Award – Sponsored Prize (if available) ($200)

For innovation in surface treatments and finishes.
Criteria: Honours work with outstanding visual appeal in form, texture, colour, and surface decoration, particularly where the artist pushes the boundaries of traditional techniques or explores unconventional approaches.