The Hills are Alive…

Edit 24. Bernadette Skinner, Officer

For Bernadette Skinner, clay sits at the centre of her everyday. She shapes beautiful ceramics and is known for crystalline glazes that reflect the colours of the landscape. Her work blends patience, precision and a respect for natural materials.

Creativity began early for Bernadette, as a child she carved shapes into fallen acorns beneath a schoolyard oak tree, one of her first memories of transforming a natural material into art. Later, in Year 9, a pottery elective changed everything. The moment she sat at the wheel, something clicked. She connected instantly with the rhythm, the focus and the quiet. She was hooked, her teacher eventually limited her wheel time because she was “using too much clay.”

Driven by process, Bernadette now grounds herself in slowness and intention. Her studio must be tidy before she begins, a ritual that brings clarity and calm before shaping each piece. She works with naturally occurring oxides mined from the earth. “There is something deeply satisfying about creating colours from raw materials that originate in the landscape itself, allowing the natural world to influence both the process and the final result.”

She adds, “I like to imagine people years from now still using and appreciating a piece… If it brings a little joy to someone’s day and stands the test of time, then I feel I’ve achieved something meaningful.”

Growing up and living in Officer, Bernadette has formed a deep connection with the region. The gardens, the seasonal colour and the quiet beauty of the Hills all find their way into her work. She has also found a sense of belonging through Valley Potters, whose support and mentorship have helped shape her journey.

Discover Bernadette’s work at @bernadette_skinner_, explore exhibitions via @valleypottersinc, and find selected pieces at @bellevuefarmgate