Joyce Gunther

I grew up in Maine on the east coast of the US. My upbringing was full of creativity and the freedom to run around the woods and the beach.

My father was a Theologian, so to us the world encompassed the universe and the heavens around us. I was brought up with understanding of the greatness around us.

We also travelled extensively. We lived in South Africa for a short time and spent summers in Nelson. I’ve always lived near water, either the sea or a river.

I love being in this part of New Zealand because we are surrounded by ever-changing seasons. Our garden is full of native trees and fruit trees that attract the bellbirds and wood pigeons. Also the light on the hills, clouds and bay can be breathtaking. Light and reflection are a constant theme in my work.

I finished my Degree in Fine Arts from the University of Oregon in the 1980s. I concentrated on oil painting, but took a lot of pottery and sculpting courses. I think I secretly I’ve always wanted to be a potter!

After University I spent about a decade fixing up old houses for a restoration company as well as for myself.

I moved to New Zealand in 1998. I started teaching art to people in the wider community at two community art centres. We taught people with special abilities. Over the years I have worked with so many amazing people!

At some stage my work became more about therapy through art. I ran an art group for those with physical disabilities, head injuries, stroke survivors and also hospital patients that needed full time care. I also ran an art session for an addiction rehabilitation centre.

Now I am a full-time artist and potter. My husband and I have similar work backgrounds. He also studied Fine Arts in Christchurch. We share a studio at our home that has lovely views of the garden, Governors Bay and the distant hills. We bounce ideas off each other all the time.

Nature is a constant inspiration!