Carla Ruka

Carla Ruka
Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Porouri

Director of Auckland Studio Potters, Onehunga, Auckland and a member of Nga Kaihanga Uku (Māori Clay Artist Collective) Carla is a passionate clay sculptress representing Ceramics nationally and internationally, developing close relationships with artists and keeping the connection through exhibitions and cultural exchanges.

Practicing the arts since 2000 she completed her studies in Māori Art and Design with a focus on ceramics.
"My work is a reflection of my spirit, I can see a piece I made 10 years ago and still remember exactly how I felt when I made it"

Carla has a genuine love for hand building using her own version of the coiling technique she has developed over the 20 years of her ceramic journey. She is known for her series of works "Māori Angels Series". Tall, flowing female forms with trailing windblown hair with a subtle cultural essence. Often her works are created in a music filled space while she dances around pulling form from her coils.

"Clay is my therapy"

Drawing inspiration from her Maori and European background she is inspired by her ancestral heritage and also by facilitating a 90+ strong kapahaka group at Wakaaranga Primary school (Māori Culture Dance and music). Carla has a private studio based in Auckland.