Lynley McMillan is the ceramic artist behind Kaimaiblue, a rural studio inspired by the ever-changing colours and textures of the Kaimai Ranges. Working primarily with wheel-thrown porcelain, often blended with local Kaimai clay, Lynley creates functional, expressive domestic ware that captures the cool tones and organic beauty of nearby forest streams.
Each piece reflects the surrounding bushwalks, waterways, and stone paths that thread through her environment. Glaze experimentation is a key part of Lynley’s practice. She mixes all her own glazes and maintains a full wall of test tiles for visitors to explore.
Her studio runs on a hybrid solar-powered system, embracing a low-waste ethos through clay recycling and sustainable practices. Lynley also shares her passion by mentoring new potters in embracing environmentally conscious creativity.
Kaimaiblue studio sits on a quiet rural property and is accessed via a riverstone path flanked by 30-year-old nīkau palms. The space is well-equipped, light-filled, and welcoming, with live demonstrations each day of the event, including kiln openings and both electric and kick wheel pottery sessions.
