Register for MRROS 2024

Code of Conduct for MRROS event

Margaret River Region Open Studios is a not-for-profit organisation that provides marketing for a 16-day event to promote artists at all stages of their career living between Busselton and Augusta and west of Sues Road.

As a participant in the 2024 MRROS event, you are expected to show respect and courtesy to others. All interactions should be professional regardless of platform: either online or in-person. In order to foster a positive and professional event, we ask you to confirm your agreement to our Code of Conduct.

I agree to:

1. Show courtesy and respect towards the MRROS Administration and Marketing team, Board members and any other volunteers working on or associated with this event.
2. Use welcoming and appropriate language at all times.
3. Be respectful of different viewpoints in a constructive and respectful manner.
4. Focus on what is best for the whole event.

• accept

• Born overseas

1. Place Name: N/A
2. Street Number: N/A
3. Street Name: N/A
4. Street ( number + name ): N/A
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6. Premise: N/A
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8. Neighborhood: N/A
9. City: Yelverton
10. County: City of Busselton
11. Region Code ( state code ): WA
12. Region Name ( state name ): Western Australia
13. Postcode / Zipcode: 6280
14. Country Code: AU
15. Country Name: Australia
16. Address: 63PX+H9 Yelverton WA, Australia
17. Formatted Address: 63PX+H9 Yelverton WA, Australia
18. Latitude: -33.664955874328236
19. Longitude: 115.09600084072267
20. Distance ( text ): N/A
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26. View in Google Maps

ABOUT YOUR ART PRACTICE

• Ceramics

As I reflect on my journey as a potter, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the winding path that has led me to this moment. My love affair with clay began in the suburban town of Belmont, Perth, where I first delved into the world of terracotta at Courtland’s Pottery. Those early days were formative, instilling within me a deep reverence for the medium and its boundless potential.

From there, I honed my skills with stoneware during my tenure at Austware Pottery, dedicating eight years to mastering the craft. However, it was my residency at the Old Cheese Factory in Balingup that truly allowed me to find my artistic voice. Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the countryside, my creativity flourished, and my unique style began to emerge. This period laid the foundation for The Old Stables Pottery, where I poured my heart and soul into crafting stoneware pieces celebrated for their beauty and resilience.

Yet, my journey took an unexpected turn in 2004 when I embarked on a transformative expedition to Nepal. There, I immersed myself in the ancient techniques of pottery-making, working with primitive technology that opened my eyes to new realms of possibility and depth. The insights gained during this pilgrimage continue to shape and enrich my work to this day.

Returning to Western Australia in 2010, I found myself drawn to Bunbury, where I established deep roots at Happs Winery as a resident artist for many years before joining the inspiring community at Commonage Pottery in 2019. Here, I specialize in high-temperature reduction firings, coaxing out the mesmerizing hues of copper reds, the delicate elegance of Chun Ware, and the irresistible allure of Jun glazes.

My association with Happs Winery & Commonage Pottery has been a source of immense joy and fulfillment. Over the years, I've had the privilege of sharing my artistry with visitors, conducting workshops, and passing on my passion for pottery to enthusiasts and budding professionals alike.

As I stand here today, recognized as one of the South West’s most celebrated potters, I am filled with humility and gratitude for the journey that has brought me to this point. My love for clay, the discipline of pottery, and the alchemy of glazes only deepens with each passing day. My story is not just one of artistic achievement, but a testament to the enduring legacy of tradition and the timeless pursuit of excellence in craft.

As I stand here today, recognized as one of the South West’s most celebrated potters, I am humbled by the journey that has brought me to this point. My love for clay, the discipline of pottery, and the alchemy of glazes only continues to grow stronger with each passing day. My story is not just one of artistic achievement, but a testament to the enduring legacy of tradition and the timeless pursuit of excellence in craft.

Uploading your images

The process has changed a little this year;

Step 1 – Add 1 image that best represents your work for the printed Event Guide

Step 2 – Add an additional 9 artwork images and studio portraits for our marketing team

Step 3 – Add up to 10 images for your website listing – they can be the same or different to the images above

Step 4 – Add one main image for your website listing.

Each image must be 300dpi, between 2.5MB and 5MB, and formatted as a jpeg file.

Re-name all files to include your name, artwork title, year created, medium and size before uploading e.g., Jane Doe_Wild Seascapes_2018_Oil on canvas_10x10cm.

Please ensure the filenames contain only alphanumeric characters, underscores or hyphens. Special characters such as punctuation will cause the upload to fail.

Please add a photographer credit to the file name if required by the photographer.

(Note: we love to use smiling, welcoming studio portraits to promote MRROS on social media)

Studio Details

Welcome to Commonage Pottery, where the art of pottery meets creativity with ease. Located within the vibrant setting of Happs Winery, our studio space is a haven for creativity and skillful craftsmanship.

Step inside and discover a well-lit, organized space where every tool is at hand and every artist is dedicated to their craft. Here, I, Gary Hambleton, alongside fellow artisans Colin Pratt, Jenny Taylor, and Namaya Fox, demonstrate our mastery of clay with precision and professionalism.

As you observe us at work, you'll see how effortlessly I transform clay into beautiful and functional pieces of art. From elegant tableware to striking artwork, my creations are a testament to my expertise and attention to detail.

But our studio isn't just a place for us to create – it's also a space for you to explore and engage with the art of pottery and other artists skills in diffewrent mediums. Watch as we demonstrate our techniques, sharing tips and tricks along the way. Feel free to ask questions and learn more about the fascinating world of pottery-making.

And if you're looking to add a touch of handmade elegance to your space & wish to have something customized, I offer commission work for hotels, restaurants, and businesses, providing bespoke pottery pieces tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

So whether you're a pottery enthusiast, a curious visitor, or a business owner seeking custom ceramics, Commonage Pottery is your destination for professional craftsmanship and artistic excellence. We look forward to welcoming you to our studio!

Yes, I am demonstrating all through the year & make work on site.

Commonage Pottery is part of HAPPS WINES venue.

• carpark
• buspark
• access
• family
• refreshments

• No steps or barriers, steep inclines, uneven or loose surfaces
• Paths are clear from the carpark
• Suits a walking frame or wheelchair

• There is a sign that everyone can see for emergency evacuation

• Ensure that there is adequate space between your furniture and displays

• Perhaps this is mitigated by a ramp.

MARKETING AND PUBLICITY

No

Events, Workshops, 'In-conversation' events and Special Activities

Event One

POTTERY WHEEL WORKSHOP
Explore the basics of throwing clay while working on the pottery wheel with our very own professional potter. A fun experience for you, your friends and your family.
$110 per person

Description:
Explore the basics of throwing, working on the pottery wheel. Learn to centre clay and create a bowl using finger thumb technique.
The workshop is led by expert potter Gary Hambleton who has been teaching from more than 30 years. This is a fun hands-on pottery workshop that you can even enjoy with a glass of Happs' wine.

Workshop includes:
A glass of Happs' wine (or non-alcoholic beverage)
All material
Demonstration and instructions
Who:
Suitable for those aged 14 and above. No experience necessary. Bookings available for groups of 1 to 5 people.
Location:
Workshop Location: Commonage Pottery and Gallery at Happs Wines Venue, 575 Commonage Road, Dunsborough WA 6281.

Make your day extra special by adding a wine experience. You can

Event Two

Offered every Monday, Wednesday and Friday between September 8 and 22.

Cost: $130 per person

Description:

Explore the tactile world of clay in our hand-building pottery workshop. Learn basic construction methods to create functional or decorative objects, perfect for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-on approach.

Workshop includes:

A glass of Happs' wine (or non-alcoholic beverage)
All material
Demonstration and instruction
One professionally fired and glazed piece made by you during the workshop
Who:

Suitable for those aged 14 and above. No experience necessary. Bookings available for individuals and groups. For larger groups of 6 or more please email us commonagepottery@happs.com.au.

Location:

Workshop Location: Commonage Pottery and Gallery at Happs Wines Venue, 575 Commonage Road, Dunsborough WA 6281.

Make your day extra special by adding a wine experience. You can view our other experiences here.

Please familiarize yourself with our terms and conditions here prior to finalizing your booking.

Event Three

Payment Details

The total fee for participating in the Open Studios Event in 2023 is $935 including GST, and made up as follows:

• Membership renewal $132
• Participation fee $803, includes compulsory Public Liability Insurance

Full payment is required upfront by credit or debit card.