About Me

Where I started

Debra McLaren is a Potter and Ceramic Artist in Albany WA.

Her new studio is set on a beautiful block amongst masses of peppermint trees and gardens in Little Grove, where she sells functional giftware and runs creative and fun workshops for all ages.

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After the birth of my daughter in 1996 I was suffering with severe post natal depression and was looking for alternative therapies.  I saw an add in the local paper for pottery classes at the local Tafe and it was then that I discovered my love of the mediative and healing properties of clay.

After playing with clay for a while I then went on to complete 2 certificate courses in Ceramics at South Metropolitan TAFE and bought my first 2nd hand pottery wheel to continue my practice in the family garage.

While raising my 4 children, building a small farm and establishing my Tourism and Wine career I have attended many classes and workshops learning different techniques from amazing Australian and International ceramic artists.

I have traveled extensively around South East Asia visiting local potteries and I have participated in several workshops at Gaya Ceramics in Bali.

I have learnt valuable techniques and gained knowledge and inspiration from the many artists at local and interstate events.

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I have refined some of my skills in an Advanced wheel throwing class and was blessed to be taught under a successful and well-known WA Ceramic artist at North Metropolitan TAFE.

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Exhibitor in the Sliced Earth Exhibition and Nectare Exhibition.

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I started my series of workshops in 2018 where I encourage you

to use the earthy tactile connection of

artist and medium to relax, create, touch and feel.    

"Clay is my outlet, my therapy and a way for me to create beautiful things

for others to enjoy..

Buying a piece of my art is buying a piece of my heart"

❤

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