New skills in the kiln: Iconic ceramic artists celebrate TAFE graduation

A group of Hermannsburg Potters have traded clay for graduation caps, with six of the artisans celebrating the completion of their studies with Charles Darwin University (CDU) this week. 

The Hermannsburg Potters have been studying visual arts at the CDU Alice Springs campus for several years and this year six of them received a CUA20720 Certificate II in Visual Arts. Including Anita Ratara, the Hermannsburg Potter who crossed the stage as the oldest graduate aged 82.

The Hermannsburg Potters are a dedicated group of Western Arranda artists who for 30 years have been sculpting and painting their visual histories on handmade ceramic pots. 

During their studies with CDU TAFE, they have branched out and learned new skills and techniques that have helped them grow as artists. 

The cohort said they have loved being able to come to the campus and learn from all the lecturers. 

“They have taught us new skills such as drawing and mixing colours, it’s a fun environment and helps us to look for new ideas for our pots,” the group said. 

CDU Visual Arts and Arts Administration Lecturer (Faculty of Arts and Society) Lucy Stewart said it was an honour to work with the Hermannsburg Potters. 

“These very experienced artists are always keen to learn new skills and explore new techniques such as drawing and printmaking,” Ms Stewart said. 

“I am proud of the work that they have done to grow as artists and push themselves outside of their comfort zones during their course work.

“We are looking forward to continuing their educational journey as most of them have now enrolled into CUA41320 Certificate IV in Visual Arts.” 

On Thursday, almost 300 students crossed the stage in cap and gown at the graduation ceremony in Alice Springs. 

Thursday’s ceremony celebrated the achievements of 48 higher education students and 243 VET students. This included 58 First Nations students and one PhD recipient.