Rachel Bakker is a ceramic artist whose practice navigates the sensory interplay of earth, water, and intentional presence. Rooted in the rugged coastlines of Auckland’s west coast and the wild solitude of Karekare, her journey to clay emerged from a period of deep meditation, nature immersion, and a shifting relationship to the rituals of food and community. Her foundation was forged through processing wild clay, throwing on a kick-wheel, and mastering wood-fired kilns.

Now in her third year of a Diploma of Ceramics on Waiheke Island, Rachel explores sculptural forms informed by organic treasures stones, shells, and seeds—collected from her environment. 

Inspired by the highly textured, meditative vessels of Akiko Hirai, she blends raw tactile surfaces with the reflective qualities of the ocean. By merging earth and water, Rachel creates objects that invite us to slow down and engage with the vibrant, felt magic of the present moment.

"My journey to clay came from spending a lot of time in nature and solitude but also just a deep appreciation for beautiful pottery." 

– Rachel Bakker