New England Friends of NERAM Artisan Trail 2025

About the Artists and their studios

Julia Hardman — Watercolour Painter

Julia’s work celebrates the unique light and colour of the New England landscape. Her watercolours often depict familiar scenes in fresh and expressive ways, reflecting her deep connection to the natural environment. Julia’s studio offers a glimpse into her creative process, from sketching in the field to developing her finished works on paper.

Rick Hatch — Potter

Born in Texas, USA, Rick graduated in Ceramic Studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz, in 1980 and has made his living as a potter ever since. He and his wife Suzanne established Weemala Pottery in 1990, where Rick is known for his beautifully made, distinctively decorated pieces and his long-standing contribution to pottery teaching in the Armidale community.

Suzanne Hatch — Potter

Suzanne studied Ceramics at the National Art School, Sydney, under Peter Rushforth. She has worked as a ceramic artist in Scotland, the USA and Australia, with her works held in public and private collections worldwide. At Weemala Pottery, Suzanne creates elegant, timeless ceramic forms and continues to share her expertise through teaching and community engagement.

Rowen Matthews — Painter

Rowen is an accomplished painter whose work explores the textures and energy of the Australian landscape. His paintings are held in public and private collections across Australia and internationally. Visitors to his studio can experience the environment that informs his practice and learn how he builds atmosphere and depth through his layered approach to painting. There is a walk down a hill to Rowen’s studio so it may not be accessible for some patrons.

Miles Harper — Reclaimed Metal Artist

Miles creates sculptural works using reclaimed and recycled metal, transforming discarded materials into expressive and imaginative forms. Working from his Armidale studio, he reimagines waste into artworks that balance industrial strength with creativity and humour. Visitors can see his process and the inventive ways he gives new life to salvaged materials.

Kerry Gulliver — Landscape Painter

Kerry lives on a bush block on the outskirts of Armidale, where her studio looks out on all sides to the surrounding landscape. The Australian bush and its changing moods inspire her paintings, which explore geology, rhythm and light through layered textures and pattern. Kerry’s work invites viewers to reconnect with the land and sense the natural forces that shape it. Kerry’s studio is accessible only by stairs so may not be suitable for some patrons.

Please note: Kerry's studio is not wheelchair accessible.

Contact Details

Contact Event Organiser