Rachel Murphy

Rachel Murphy is a West Auckland based ceramicist who produces delicate porcelain vessels that represent local landscapes. Through the incorporation of 24k gold leaf into her pieces, Murphy creates luminous works that have a sense of opulence.

Murphy works predominantly in porcelain slip casting, using plaster molds and slip. The imagery on the surface of her ceramics finds its inspiration in nature. Murphy is interested in the subtleties and extremes of land, sea and air. Common motifs include cliffs and mountains set against dramatic richly coloured skies. Her creative process often begins with observations on a walk in the bush or on rugged west coast beaches.

Recently the artist has started gilding leaves including Gingko, Oak and iconic New Zealand fern fronds. The rich fine details are further emphasised by Murphy’s superb technique. As single pieces they act as elegant accents and hung on mass they seem to dance along the wall in delightful freefall, shining for all to see and marvel at the beauty of simplicity in nature.

Rachel Murphy came to work with ceramics after gaining a Bachelor of Design and spending some 15 years designing furniture and interiors. Artist Jo Nuttall was a key mentor for the slip casting process. Murphy’s work is therefore influenced by her design background, with an emphasis on form and texture.

Rachel Murphy exhibits her work in select galleries in New Zealand.