Joanne Ball

I began potting way back in the 1970’s in Western Australia and after successfully completing a 5 year diploma in Ceramics at TAFE followed by 1 year at Curtin University studying glaze technology I then became a production potter, although not full time.

Because I lived in WA but also owned a house in Kuranda I spent most of my adult life travelling between the 2 states working in Journalism in WA and producing production ware to sell at the Kuranda and Port Douglas markets. After completing an order for 200 teapots I decided it was time for a change and began
hand/sculpture building focusing on large pieces suitable for gardens.

I have exhibited in several galleries and wineries in WA and over a 12 year span exhibited annually in the garden of Holberry House in Nannup WA with usually in excess of 15 large pieces.

Now that my husband Fred has retired we are living permanently in Kuranda and my work is currently exhibited in the Australis Gallery in Kuranda.
I enjoy exploring different firing techniques but prefer firing with Gas and Wood, always making my own kilns to accommodate larger pieces.

My life in retirement is now totally focussed on being in my studio daily and as I constantly say. “It keeps me off the streets”.