Creativity flourishes in Waihi, and artists like Millie Robinson find inspiration at every turn.
As the proud owner of Laughing Pottery, Millie feels her artistic journey is a tale of Clay serendipity, resilience and a deep connection to a vibrant community.
Finding the clay path
Millie completed a degree at the Otago Polytechnic School of Art, immersing herself in the world of Jewellery and Metalsmithing. Despite her love for the craft, the attraction for ceramics lingered, patiently awaiting its moment. After a 12-year hiatus spent in Australia, delving into professions far removed from the arts, Millie found herself back in New Zealand, standing at the crossroads of a new beginning.
The decision to embrace pottery came naturally. She was gifted a wheel and a voucher for a lesson at Laughing Pottery, where she met the owner at the time, Andrew Killick. He asked her to do an apprenticeship, and less than a year later she owned the studio.
For Millie, art isn’t just a medium of expression; it’s an intrinsic part of her being. “Art is in you,” Millie emphasises, underscoring the essence of creative expression.
Waihi, with its wealth of artistic talent and a welcoming community, became the backdrop for Millie’s artistic metamorphosis. “I quickly discovered that Waihi is chocka full of artists, many of them potters, and it has been an amazing place to land. There is a wealth of knowledge around me, which everyone is so willing to share. Other artists and the community as a whole, have been so welcoming and supportive, which is very humbling and encouraging.”
From concept to creation – The dance of artistic process
Millie’s creative process is all about experimentation and a continual quest for mastery. Stepping into an existing studio, she initially absorbed knowledge like a sponge, gradually finding her rhythm in the unpredictable world of pottery.
“I love the utilitarian nature of my work,” Millie shares. The delicate balance between artistry and practicality is evident in every piece she creates. The process involves a dance of ideas and skill, with each piece embodying a unique fusion of artistic vision and craftsmanship. The natural wonders of the greater Waihi area play a pivotal role in shaping Millie’s work. From the beaches to the bushwalks, the colours of the environment find their way into her glazes, each named after local places and wildlife. The textured, non-uniform nature of her pieces reflects the landscape’s variations, creating a tangible connection between art and nature.
Mentors, influences and sustainability
A mentor and guide, Andrew Killick’s selfless sharing of knowledge and trust laid the foundation for Millie’s artistic evolution. Taking over Laughing Pottery, Millie’s work has become an extension of Andrew’s legacy, evolving into a unique style influenced by her experiences and insights.
As Millie emphasises, having a mentor and a community of supportive artists is invaluable. With its abundance of artistic minds, Waihi provides a nurturing environment where ideas are exchanged, advice is given, and the collective creative spirit thrives.
Millie’s commitment to her craft extends to her choice of materials. Working with Macs Mud clay sourced from Waikato, she aligns her creations with the local landscape. It’s not just about the clay; she makes a conscious effort to support local businesses, from materials to services, reflecting the interconnectedness of the creative ecosystem.
Challenges and legacy
Every artist faces challenges, and for Millie, the pace at which she had to learn stands out. Taking over Laughing Pottery, managing a business and honing her craft simultaneously demanded resilience. Yet, with the community’s support, Millie navigated the complexities, proud of her journey’s distance and the obstacles overcome.
Laughing Pottery is a hub of creativity where Millie engages with the community through pottery lessons. The joy she finds in teaching others, witnessing them overcome doubts, and creating pieces they cherish, resonates deeply. It’s a way of giving back to the community that has embraced her artistry.
Art as a tourist magnet
Waihi’s rich art, history and natural beauty attract visitors from far and wide. Millie’s work becomes more than just pottery; it transforms into cherished mementos of time spent in Waihi. The emotional connection people forge with her creations adds another layer to the town’s allure, enhancing the local economy and tourism scene.
In Millie’s hands, clay becomes more than just a medium – it becomes a bridge connecting the artist, the community and the enchanting landscapes of Waihi.
The Laughing Pottery store is open Tuesdays to Fridays from 9 am to 4 pm and Saturdays from 9 am to 3 pm at 18 Rosemont Road, Waihi 3610.
Classes can be booked on the ‘lessons’ page on the website: laughingpottery.com
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