14k 
Earth & Alchemy Ceramics
location_on Hamilton, Brisbane
local_activity classes: Wheel Throwing • Ceramic Painting and Glazing • Clay Sculpture and Hand Building • Pottery
5.0 (217)
2k followers
I have spent the last five years falling deeply in love with pottery. Immersing myself in clay has completely changed my life and has helped me to express myself freely and creatively while maintaining positive mental health. I love teaching classes and sharing the joy of creating with clay with others.
I have plenty of experience teaching beginner to advanced students. Having studied ceramics in depth at TAFE and with various master potters I feel confident to be operating and teaching from my studio at home. I have also completed an internship at a studio where I later returned as manager to teach classes as well as new interns, taking them from complete beginners all the way through to advanced - some students have even gone on to be successful in starting their own businesses with pottery.
My deep love for the earth inspires my work. I create organic shapes and use vibrant colours to reflect the wonderful world we live in. Something I love about pottery is that every single piece is completely 100% unique! Each piece tells a story and serves a purpose. The process of making pottery is incredibly fun, rewarding, therapeutic and calming.
All of our teachers are highly experienced and passionate about the craft of pottery. Whoever leads your workshop, we guarantee you will be in great hands.
I am super excited to be able to share my cosy and beautiful studio overlooking the Brisbane River and city with you. Come and create something beautiful!
Classes
Reviews
(217)
Jenny Barry • Apr 2024
Our wheel throwing beginners class was truly wonderful! Esther is such an experienced, patient and gentle teacher. The studio is in a beautiful location, and the perfect spot to try to get in touch with your inner creative. I loved it!
Josh Gilling • Apr 2024
A fun and informative class in a quaint spot with lovely river views. The instructor is friendly and skilled at pottery and teaching. Highly recommend!
Anandia Sullivan • Mar 2024
After a beautiful afternoon in Dec enjoying the wheel throwing class for my 40th, the group of us returned today to do the glazing class for another friend’s bday. Once again, it was such a delight to be lead by Esther and spend time together being creative as we immersed ourselves in the calmness of paintbrushes and clay. Esther’s passion for her craft is very apparent and I can’t help wishing I had a lot more time to spend filling my cup in this way. Thanks Esther!
Ethel Leung • Mar 2024
I went back to complete colouring my first lot of ceramic bowls. Esther once again is very nice, helpful and patient with all of us. Learnt different techniques of colouring the halfway done ceramics and I can't wait to see the completed set!
Jillian Rosenstengel • Feb 2024
Esther was a natural teacher. Calm and encouraging. Excellent at imparting knowledge. 4 beautiful pieces produced!
Catherine Noonan • Feb 2024
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Esther was a great teacher with a calmness and patience perfect for beginners. The location with river views just added to the experience and made for a nice morning out learning some new skills. We look forward to booking in again to glaze our pieces made today.
Jessica Salmon • Feb 2024
3 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
My sister and I enjoyed our time learning how to create pottery on the wheel. It was a fantastic experience, very relaxing environment and Esther our teacher was very calming. We created 4 pieces in the time we were there. Great value for money, would definitely do this class again.
Alex Dixon • Feb 2024
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Gifted a voucher for my birthday, went into this with no expectations only ever having had one brief go at using a pottery wheel at school. Atmosphere was really relaxed and friendly and the teacher was completely knowledgeable, patient and helpful. We got to make 4 different pieces with the message of 'let the clay become what it wants to, not what you think it should be'. This was the best gift experience I've had in a long time and I will definitely explore this art further. I thoroughly recommend this class.
Ruby Chari • Feb 2024
Very comfortable setting. Esther is a great teacher! Parking was easy too.
Photo of my pots post glazing class :)
Diarmuid Deans • Feb 2024
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Esther is a great teacher and the atmosphere was fantastic, I’m looking forward to the glazing workshop.
Daira Avila • Jan 2024
Although the idea of the class was to make a mug, we felt that the explanation was quite good, and the teacher was very kind and encouraged us to be creative. For this reason, we think we would have liked a little more ideas of what we could have incorporated, as some of us lack a little creativity. :D But for the rest of it, it was a good class.
Peter Hostak • Jan 2024
We had a great class with Esther! She explained things very clearly and was always on hand to help and advise. Lovely venue with great view, would definitely recommend to those wanting to try their hand at pottery throwing!
Jackie Newton • Dec 2023
We had a private workshop for a family members birthday. Esther was super accommodating allow us to book in the Christmas break. Thank you. Our trainer, Mai (sorry if incorrect) was great. Assisted all of us to make our pieces of art. Location fabulous with lots of light and lovely views. Good tester for pottery making
Katherine Miller • Dec 2023
3 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
We had the best time in this class! Our teachers were so clear and helpful and explained everything so well. The location was good and there was parking in a car park nearby. The view from the pottery room and the set up was so pretty, it felt like we were “inside Instagram”.
We had plenty of clay to play with and made four pieces which we will get to take home once they’ve been fired. We absolutely loved it and definitely recommend this class. We will be back to do the glazing class asap!
I can’t believe we managed to make four pots/mugs we will actually get to use - being our first time I thought they would be monstrosities but they were really lovely!
Audrey Wong • Dec 2023
Absolutely beautiful venue. Esther was very patient, and very clear on the instructions. We all succeeded in making 4 bowls/ vessels!
Charissa Kong • Dec 2023
It’s my friends and i first time actually using a pottery wheel and Esther was very friendly, patient, and helpful with the whole process. She explained everything in detailed and guided us throughout the process would definitely be coming back
Madeleine Powell • Dec 2023
Esther was amazing and so helpful! I had such an amazing experience and was able to achieve so much within the time provided. Perfect for beginners and would highly Recommend to anyone wanting to give it a go
Danny Bullimore • Nov 2023
Esther was simply amazing, our first experience in pottery all the more enjoyable as Esther is passionate for her craft which in turn allowed me the freedom to create.
Karen Murphy • Nov 2023
5 ClassBento workshops attended • 5 reviews
Another amazing class. This time done with a group of friends which was so good! Looking forward to glazing next.
Jazz Zhao • Oct 2023
Fantastic! We'll most likely be back again at some other point! The materials provided were of such high quality. The venue was beautifully peaceful (river views in a quaint sunlit studio ) and Esther was wonderful, patient and a reassuring guide to someone new to pottery. Such a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Xx
Stacey Brown • Oct 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Booked this class as a birthday gift for my sister. We had an awesome time! Was really fun to learn how to make pottery with a wheel. The teacher was awesome and very helpful. Came out with four very nice pieces that I will glaze in a future class. Definitely recommend.
Cheryl Robinson • Oct 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Gorgeous venue, excellent teacher - loved this class and will be booking in for more with Earth and Alchemy Ceramics!
Karen Murphy • Oct 2023
5 ClassBento workshops attended • 5 reviews
Wonderful experience from start to finish - great location, great teacher and great outcome! Would do it again in a heart beat.
Karen Murphy • Oct 2023
5 ClassBento workshops attended • 5 reviews
Due to illness I was unable to make this class at the last minute. However Esther glazed my pots for me - providing photos of glazes and pots first so I could match them up! The outcome was amazing. The pots below were made in the beginner's wheel class and glazed mentioned above.
Jade Dale • Oct 2023
Esther was a great teacher, so lovely and not rushed. Views from her studio onto Brisbane river. Helped us create some great pieces on our first time doing pottery, very happy and would definitely love to go back
Serena • Sep 2023
Esther was a fabulous instructor. So calm and patient. The studio was beautiful, bright and airy, overlooking the Brisbane River. Class size was perfect - just five people. And we made four pottery pieces in just two hours!
Josie Huang • Sep 2023
Had a lot of fun! Ester is a great teacher and with a class that small, it was easy to get assistence. Have recommended it to other people. Might even do it again myself. Thank you
Hannah Buckingham • Sep 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
My mum and I are so stoked with how our pots turned out after glazing. The finish is stunning and the class was so much fun, thank you Esther for the experience!
Benjamin Conway • Sep 2023
My partner and I absolutely loved the whole experience. Something completely new for the both of us and it was fantastic. Esther, our teacher was so patient and accommodating that it made the whole experience so easy and enjoyable. We will definitely be recommending this to our friends and family
Sandy Crane • Sep 2023
5 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
Was very enjoyable.
Teacher is amazing and patient.
Lots of colours to choose from.
Even fed chocolate:)
Nina Petroff • Sep 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Esther is a beautiful teacher. Very knowledgeable but also kind and patient with complete beginners!
Petria Smith • Sep 2023
3 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
Esther was so lovely during this class, taking the time to explain the glazing process and helping us all choose the colours and styles we were wanting to achieve. 10/10 recommend any classes Esther offers!
Alexandra Buchanan • Aug 2023
59 ClassBento workshops attended • 53 reviews
Esther is an incredible teacher. She is kind, gentle and gives clear instructions. She is great for conversation and sharing her expertise.
Materials are wonderful and so happy with my bowls.
Brianna Jude • Jul 2023
6 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
Loved the class, Esther was knowledgeable and down to earth. Soon I will be coming home with four beautiful glazed bowls.
Andrea Collins • Jul 2023
We had a fun and very educational afternoon. Esther was, as usual lovely and explained what we were doing very well. The setting is lovely and we look forward to seeing the final result of our works. Highly recommend this experience to anyone, thank you Esther
Liz • Jul 2023
Teacher great … and we were glazing in no time. Venue has a spectacular river and city view. All up a great experience and would recommend.
Jennifer Marsh • Jul 2023
4 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
A lovely morning an awesome venue and a very knowledgeable teacher. Highly recommend this class.
Ian Sweeney • Jul 2023
3 ClassBento workshops attended
Excellent class. Anna was exceptional and Esther was so accommodating - thanks for the glasses for our bubbles! Instructions were clear and Anna's guidance helped us shape 4 unique pieces. Thanks for the experience!
Kristina Humberstone • Jul 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Such a great morning spent potting. My teacher was light hearted and keen to help everyone as well as super informative. It was a very relaxed environment and would gladly book again.
Charlotte Hope • Jul 2023
Wow! We had a fantastic time. The location was beautiful and serene. The teacher was so helpful and knowledgeable, it was run at a really great pace. Felt like I’d had a small holiday away from the world. Will definitely be back.
Kym Mathews • Jun 2023
Ester is so kind and supportive. Was very easy to understand what to fo today and it was so much fun.
Ivy Vrcic • Jun 2023
3 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
Esther is an amazing teacher! Not only does she love what she does, she explains everything with so much knowledge about the science behind pottery and glazing. It’s always such a pleasure to attend her classes. It’s a calming environment and an all up wholesome experience.
Sarah Biggam • Jun 2023
My sister and I treated ourselves to a Saturday morning Wheel Throwing Beginners Class. I cannot recommend this experience highly enough. We had the most incredible & immersive 2 hours learning the art of pottery.
Esther is such a patient & calming teacher, which adds to the authenticity of the whole experience. The venue is superb (that view) and inspiring within itself.
Since we don't live locally, Esther is so kindly firing and glazing the pieces we made & then posting them to us. We cannot wait to welcome our handmade pottery pieces into our homes! We will cherish them forever.
This class was the highlight of our short trip to Brisbane, and it certainly won't be the last time we attend Esther's classes!
Thank you for having us Esther! We are so grateful to have been welcomed into your space & have shared in your art.
Andrea Francis • Jun 2023
We loved this class. It was fun, the teacher was lovely, professional, friendly and very encouraging. We were surprised at how many pieces we were able to make (and that we actually did create pieces!). The class was intimate, we learnt and were taught so much, we had the most enjoyable interactive time and the view was delightful. Highly recommend this to anyone wanting to do something different. A perfect gift to us from
Our daughter.
Mitsuki Furutani-Burns • Jun 2023
Trainer was so lovely and helpful. Was such a fun experience and super therapeutic. Enjoyed it and highly recommend!
Kaye Dong • May 2023
6 ClassBento workshops attended
My daughter and I came for this workshop for Mothers Day.
Esther was such a patient teacher & so encouraging. We felt so “at home” and found the workshop an amazing way to slow down the mind and unleash our creativity.
Highly recommend!
Gillian Mitchell • May 2023
Absolutely fantastic experience! Esther was wonderful - so welcoming and a great, patient teacher. We were so happy with our creations and loved every minute, can’t recommend enough!
Chelcie Jones • May 2023
Esther was incredible. So helpful, she made it very easy to pick up and was such a calming, encouraging presence
The studio was gorgeous
We could not be happier with our experience
Annemarie White • May 2023
I loved the pottery making and felt the teacher was so great- very helpful, not critical at all and helpful. Lovely!
It was nice to make four items.
Peta O'Sullivan • May 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
Great teacher, covers the group extremely well during the class. Very positive and encouraging nature. 4 pieces were made easily without rush in the timeframe. Lovely set-up with fantastic views of the Brisbane River. We're keen to return for more classes!
Samantha Ball • Apr 2023
We had such a great glazing class with the lovely Esther! All materials were provided and Esther's teaching was easy to follow. Studio location has the best view (which is perfect for when you have to wait for a layer of glaze to dry!)
Will absolutely recommend to my friends and family!
Jess Rowley • Apr 2023
We had the best time! Such a cool, calm and welcoming space! We will be back again and again Really cannot rate highly enough xx
Breanna Fenton • Apr 2023
We had such a fun class! The studio is so beautiful which made the experience even more enjoyable. The class was easy to follow and the small class made it really easy to get help from the instructor when needed. Definitely recommend for beginners.
Jennifer Marsh • Apr 2023
4 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
Had a fantastic time at this class - beautiful venue overlooking the Brisbane River - small class so very personable- wonderful teacher who was very patient and knowledgeable. We made 4 pots! Very good value for money. We will be back!
Kirsten Schmidt • Apr 2023
3 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
This class is a lovely way to spend an afternoon! Esther is such a patient and fun teacher, and with a small class size you recieve one-on-one, hands on guidance to help you achieve four lovely and completely unique finished pieces. Everyone has their own style and end product, no two will be identical, and that's the beauty of it! I highly recommend this class if you're a beginner, or even if you're looking for a bit of extra time on the wheel.
Thanks so much, Esther!
Danielle Galvin • Apr 2023
3 ClassBento workshops attended • 2 reviews
Venue was gorgeous. Teacher was so helpful, nice and kind. Loved learning a new skill will definitely come back! Would 100% recommend.
Margie Pariss • Apr 2023
Such a great experience!
Our teacher Esther was wonderful, very kind and patient while helping us make and fix our little creations.
We all had an awesome time learning something new and enjoying such a beautiful and peaceful spot right on the Brisbane River.
Would highly recommend this class for anyone and everyone!
Kat Sekar • Apr 2023
I recently attended this class and I must say, it was an amazing experience! From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and Esther was incredibly patient and knowledgeable.
Despite being a complete novice, Esther guided me through the process step-by-step, ensuring that I was comfortable with each stage of the pottery making process. I really appreciate the personalized attention that I received throughout the class, which made me feel like my progress was being tracked and celebrated. All the necessary equipment and tools provided. The class was well-organized and ran smoothly.
Overall, I had a fantastic time at this class and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore their creativity and learn a new skill. Thanks Esther for such a wonderful experience!
Lee Whitby • Mar 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended
It was a great day, thoroughly enjoyed learning the wheel, amazed at what we produced on our first lesson, credit to the teacher
Heidy White • Mar 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Lots of fun and laughter to be had as we made our first entry into Clay/Wheel Throwing at an easy to find Brisbane location. Xanthe was a patient and always smiling teacher who instructions were easy to follow, if not execute as successfully, but she helped us rescue our little weird but wonderful pottery creations when needed. I think our introductory lesson may have kindled our desire to learn more. Would definitely recommend for any interested beginners. Thank you for having us!
Tracey Vieira • Jan 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended
I had so much fun! Total beginner but great instruction and help throughout. I’ll be going again.
Megan Biggs • Jan 2023
Esther was so knowledgeable, patient and very friendly.
For us beginners, we wee never made to feel like what we were doing was bad . Even though I am not even sure what I can call what I made besides abstract
Definitely going to re book
Alex Mills • Jan 2023
59 ClassBento workshops attended • 53 reviews
Had the best time this morning. Esther is such a great teacher - she made everything so clear and simple.
The clay we used is was so nice to work with.
There is a hill and flight of stairs to get to the workshop and parking was a pain… but it was worth it!
Vicki Meyer • Dec 2022
5 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews
Teacher was lovely and very helpful , nice view of the Brisbane river whilst working on making my clay bowl , can’t wait for the next step
Shannon Webb • Dec 2022
This was an excellent experience! We learnt how to make bowls, a plate and a vase. We got four pieces of clay to make what we wanted. Anna, the instructor was really clear and gave a lot of one on one help. I liked the fact that the class was small so we could all get help where needed.
I look forward to going back to glaze our pieces and maybe try another course as well.
Grace Cottis • Nov 2022
Esther was amazing! Loved her space and energy. I’ve never done pottery before so it was a great first experience, can’t wait to be back
Daniel Davison • Oct 2022
Estel was an awesome teacher and the setting looking out over the Brisbane river was amazing! All materials were provided and well worth the money for the 2hr class. Having the freedom to learn the basics and then experiment/explore on my own (with some help) made the class far more engaging! Would recommend.
Nicole Svencis • Oct 2022
This was a fantastic experience for my Mum’s 85th birthday. Our teacher Anna, was so encouraging, kind & joyous in her approach with us.
Once you get past the old entry in the building, the studio is a glorious space w fabulous open view of the river. Thought it was excellent value for money as everything was provided, we made x4 different “pots” & these will be fired for us to pick up! Fabulous experience ✨
Janel Brandon • Oct 2022
2 ClassBento workshops attended
This was my very first pottery class, and I feel like I made some things I will enjoy forever. I had no idea what to expect from a pottery class, but this was an absolute joy!
Esther's studio is in a beautiful part of the city, with amazing views of the river. She is a skilful potter and teacher - she gave us just what we needed to know to try it ourselves, working with each of us to make sure we got the basics. The feeling of the clay is so good, and combined with the beautiful view and supportive teacher, it was just the best way I could have spent a Saturday morning! I can't wait to go back to glaze the things I made, and I will definitely be back for more throwing time.
I highly recommend - and don't wait to book a class because they fill up fast.
