Quartz Museum of Studio Ceramics — Attraction in North Island

Every town has a hidden gem. This is Whanganui's. It is criminal that this place is not as visited as it should be. Rick, resident artist and founder of the museum, is an absolute treat to talk to, and you can spend well over an hour just talking with him if that's your thing. His knowledge of New Zealand potters is incredible. The museum has several rooms over two floors, with the ground floor being wheelchair accessible. You'll find collections of works from New Zealand and Whanganui itself, as well as a rotating exhibition downstairs. As of writing, it hosts the Emerging Practitioner in Clay Award, run by Rick from little old Whanganui. Upstairs focuses on specific potters, but also holds a room dedicated to the collection from a recently passed potter that was donated in its entirety to the museum. There are stunning works everywhere you look. This is the kind of place that should be making Whanganui a destination, rather than a stop along the way. If you do visit, consider buying a teapot (some are even practical to use). If not, leave a donation. You'll see why Quartz...

What a wonderful Musuem!!! The selection of permanent collection is really good. So much to see!!! allow yourself plenty of time to admire the current works as well as the permanent collection. Although the admission is free. I highly recommend donating, It's well worth the price. The owner is also an artist and his collection there as well. Pure pieces of art!!! I wanted to buy one of his teapots but was worried about making it back to the states safety without me breaking it!!! So I purchased a catalog with photos of his teapots instead! Not the same as seeing the real thing though. Rick Rudd, check out this Musuem and his works. There is also free...

What an incredible & impressive collection of fine ceramics curator & creator Rick Rudd built in Whanganui. I spent time in every room steeped in the ideas & dreams of the many one-of-a-kind potters from all over New Zealand and beyond.

Rick was a delightful host welcoming me when I first arrived. He willingly took time from his own work to share his passion not only for his craft but for his vision of bringing together the artistic talents of colleagues who have long since left this land. My visit to the museum will stay with me for a very long...