A Q&A with Leonora Heaven, winner of the Sculpture Prize at 2024’s Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival
Please tell us a bit about yourself.
I grew up on a wine estate in South Africa with five brothers and had a great childhood on the farm. Playing in the mud and earth as a child, I understand why clay has become my passion and my joy.
I trained as a registered nurse and midwife in South Africa. Together with my husband and very young family, we arrived in Australia over 40 years ago.
When and why did you take up pottery?
After raising four children and a career in midwifery, I was fortunate enough to “find” clay – or should I say clay found me.
It was during a visit back to South Africa in 2017 when I was invited along to a pottery class and fell head over heels in love. I was so eager to learn that I enrolled at TAFE in 2018 and did a diploma in ceramics. Since then I have been fortunate to participate in ceramic tours and workshops in South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and recently attended a two-week workshop in Bali using found clays and materials.
What are you working on now?
I am currently experimenting with rocks and clay chunks I pick up on my walks. These I grind and add chemicals to produce glazes with which I texture and decorate my pieces. I have so much to learn and not a day goes by that I am not in my studio playing and creating one-off pieces.
What inspired 2024’s award-winning vase?
I love the ancient African ceremonial vessels as well as texture. My purpose is to produce individual tactile, sculptural and functional pottery. I enjoy throwing on the wheel as much as hand-building.
My winning vessel was hand built and represented living between the textured escarpment and the sea.
I was thrilled to win in 2024 and want to encourage the many talented Illawarra potters to consider entering the Thirroul Art Festival.
2025 Art Show applications close on 21 May and Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival returns from 30 May to 1 June. Visit www.thirroulfestival.com.au
Follow Leonora on Instagram @glammar_pots