Studio of Tonia Geddes &
Lee Johnston, Ngāti Porou Ngāti Kahungunu
Live each day well
Nestled at the base of Maungatautari mountain in Cambridge, New Zealand, our studio is inspired by the quiet beauty of nature and the Latin phrase memento mori — a reminder of life’s impermanence.
Our work is a celebration of living boldly, artfully, and with intention.
Each piece is designed and handcrafted in
our Maungatautari studio,
with a focus on sustainability, individuality,
and timeless design.
+ + +
After working in film industry Art Departments for over 20 years I decided to follow a different path that would enliven and sustain. Many years ago while working in Wellington on The Hobbit movie, I was taken by the ceramicware made for that production and together with Tonia, started a journey with clay.
Tonia has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Canterbury University. We design the forms together: I throw on the wheel, and Tonia uses handbuilding techniques.
We work out of our country studio at the base of Maungatautari mountain, just south of Cambridge - our whakaruruhau, giving protection, shelter and connection. Having grown up in Cambridge it was very special for me to return several years ago as a full time potter, and Tonia has also come full circle to be inspired once again by the beauty of the Waikato region.
Ngaa mihi nui
Lee
Follow our ceramicware journey on Facebook & Instagram