Jessi England
CEO & Artistic Director
Jessi leads Canberra Potters with overall responsibility for the delivery of strategy, operations, business management, and artistic and learning programs. She works closely with the Board to set the vision and direction of Canberra Potters, ensuring the organisation delivers on its mission as a leading centre for ceramics committed to promoting excellence and innovation in ceramics, fostering appreciation of handcrafted ceramics in the broader community and encouraging the professional development of its members.
With over 25 years’ experience across the cultural sector and creative industries, Jessi has held senior roles in not-for-profits, government institutions, and as an independent consultant. Her expertise spans strategic planning, organisational development, programming, marketing, partnerships, philanthropy, and sector advocacy.
Recognised for her collaborative and inclusive leadership, Jessi is committed to supporting creative communities and building sustainable, vibrant organisations. She represents Canberra Potters nationally and locally, strengthening networks and partnerships that expand opportunities for artists, students, and the community.
Fiona Veikkanen
Education Director
Fiona leads Canberra Potters’ education program, managing classes, workshops, and masterclasses for children and adults. She works closely with staff, teachers, and visiting artists to ensure programs are high quality, innovative, and welcoming.
Fiona is a strategic and creative leader with a diverse background in visual arts, education, sustainability, and small business. Previously she lead community initiatives in urban agriculture, sustainable transport, and climate engagement at Canberra Environment Centre. She holds a Visual Arts degree in sculpture and a Diploma in Sustainable Living and has worked in public programs at the National Gallery of Australia. Fiona also co-owned and operated a busy local restaurant.
Passionate about life-long learning, she supports course design, teacher development, and student engagement, creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.
Dr Liisa Naar
Gallery Manager
Liisa manages the Canberra Potters Gallery and the Canberra Potters Artist-in-Residence program and associated events, as well contributing to the collection management of the Canberra Potters Ceramics Collection.
Working closely with CEO, Jessi England, Liisa is responsible for developing and delivering the annual artistic program to reflect contemporary ceramic art and its relationship to other artistic practices, attracting leading Australian and international ceramic artists, and fostering curatorial excellence across the gallery program and permanent collection.
Bringing a breadth of experience and deep knowledge developed across various roles in art, design, architecture and academia, Liisa is a passionate and professional arts manager. Her work for cultural organisations has been recognised with many national design and publishing awards. She brings an entrepreneurial mindset to opportunities and challenges and loves connecting ceramicists, artists and makers with audiences.
Gemma Brown
Workshops and Facilities Coordinator
Gemma coordinates our facilities and site ensuring the smooth operations, presentation and upkeep of workshops and allied areas, and the maintenance of the onsite facilities and grounds of Watson Arts Centre. Gemma’s role supports the creative and learning operations Canberra Potters and its facilities and site as a dynamic specialist ceramics centre
Gemma is a practicing ceramic artist and arts worker with experience across Strathnairn Arts Association, Clay Studio Canberra, Walker Ceramic Supplies, and has previously served as a board member for Designed Objects Tasmania.
She brings extensive technical expertise in ceramics and a commitment to supporting the operation and development of studio and arts facilities. Gemma holds a Certificate IV in Visual Arts (Ceramics) from TasTAFE and a Bachelor of Visual Arts from the Australian National University and is currently a studio holder at Strathnairn Arts Association.
Leah Jackson
Interim Shop Manager
As interim Shop Manager Leah welcomes the public into the shop and gallery spaces – available to assist with tool, clay and gift purchases and shop inquiries. Managing shop operations and stock, and working closely with the represented shop artists, Leah ensures that the shop offers a high-quality range of handmade ceramics that represent and support established and emerging artists and makers and an outstanding range of pottery making products. Canberra Potters’ retail shop services the public and students and is integral to Canberra Potters financial sustainability.
Leah brings 25+ years arts and crafts industry experience to the role, maintaining a personal practice, and offering invaluable expertise in ceramics.
Melissa Gabelle
Technical Officer
Melissa supports Canberra Potters’ technical operations, managing kilns, clays, slips, glazes, and materials to keep workshops running smoothly. She oversees kiln maintenance and bookings, clay recycling, and ordering essential supplies, ensuring reliable facilities for students and members.
A practicing potter herself, Melissa combines strong technical expertise with hands-on experience, providing practical solutions and support to staff, teachers, and students.
Her dedication helps maintain a safe, well-equipped, and creative environment, making her an integral part of the Canberra Potters team.
Paul Dumetz
Workshop Assistant
Paul supports the Workshop and Facilities Coordinator and Technical Officer in their duties. His expert knowledge of workshop practices, current ceramic arts trends and technologies ensure the safe and efficient running of our workshop areas.
Paul has had a long association with Canberra Potters and regularly assists with our term and holiday teaching programs. He is a practicing ceramic artist, with his works proudly featured in the Canberra Potters Shop.
