When I work on a piece I play. I have an inventory of sculptural forms, simple abstract non-specific shapes that I find myself enjoying making. Then I start building these shapes together and I find myself smiling. I say ‘Hello, I think I have got something !’
— Ruth Duckworth, Ceramic Sculptor
Handsculpted black stoneware moonflower candleabra made in New Zealand.

Featured for December

Black stoneware handcarved ceramic trinket box. Ruru ( morepork) owl native to New Zealand.

Waitākere Open Studio Weekend 2025 was a big success this year for me. Not only was it a great opportunity for me to reconnect with repeat clients, but also to meet many new ceramic art lovers. I decided to set myself the challenge of producing a small pop up exhibition at my studio to showcase the side of ceramics I love the most, which is my sculptural pieces. The ideas for this little exhibition were initially conceived from a Māori whakataukī. ‘Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu’ (Adorn the bird with feathers so it can fly) Suggesting if you give an individual what they need they can thrive and achieve their potential. I thought about my own creative journey and the knowledge people have generously shared with me over the last few years as I delve into the world of ceramics and this felt appropriate.
My past works around the Pekepeka-tou-roa (NZ long-tailed bat) which is also considered a manu or flying creature lead me to consider what else thrives in the night hours while most of us are asleep. It unlocked a magical world of nocturnal creatures and some of the magical night blooming flowers you will see here.

Explore my exhibitions page to discover more about this side of my practice. I am always open and excited to discuss commissions. Feel free to contact me here or visit the studio to discuss.

White stonware hand sculpted Moonflower ceramic Wall Lights
A delicate hand sculpted ceramic flower sculpture in black and white. handmade in New Zealand from black stoneware clay.
A large handsculpted black stoneware ceramic bowl. The form is created to represent the beauty of the night flowering evening primrose. Handcrafted in New Zealand.

Recent projects and stockists

  • *NEW* First & Form - Architectural Range for Collective by Box™

    For each piece in this range, form has been the first consideration in their creation. created for Collective by Box.

  • Colour Collab

    A special collaboration with Beeswax candle artist Poppy and Sage. Exploring colour and light. Each piece boasts a tiny precious vessel that can be a candle holder or mini vase. Awesome new seasons colours available from Rita Edited

  • Extinct and endangered bird skulls of Aotearoa

    The ‘No Moa Collection’. Just like nature each skull is hand sculpted and unique. Find available manu skulls here. Or find them at our stockist Te Uru Art Gallery Shop.

  • Everyone needs a little colour in their life

    Candle holders creating a corner of colour to bring warmth and light to your home. Something to make you smile.