Auckland ceramic artist with 30+ years experience creating handcrafted pottery, wall art and garden sculptures inspired by NZ nature.
Bob Steiner is a renowned New Zealand ceramic artist based in Auckland, creating exquisite pieces of fine ceramic art for over 30 years. From his Avondale studio, Bob and his small team handcraft pottery that captures the essence of New Zealand’s fauna and flora in distinctive glazes and sculptural forms.
Key Facts
- Experience: 30+ years
- Location: Avondale, Auckland
- Studio: Family-run with small team
- Specialty: Wall art, garden sculptures, tableware
- Also Known As: Steiner Ceramics, Blue Ponga
The Artist
Bob Steiner has a long-established history of creating quality, collectable ceramic work. Working from his west Auckland studio with his wife, Bob has built a reputation for pieces that blend artistry with functionality.
Over the years, his work has sold under various names including Steiner Studios Limited, Steiner Ceramics, Bob Steiner Ceramics, and Blue Ponga.
Artistic Style
Nature-Inspired Design
Bob’s work is greatly influenced by the natural flora and fauna around him. Colourful fantails, leaves, flowers, and starfish make up his popular wall art collection – each piece capturing a moment from the New Zealand natural environment.
Distinctive Glazes
Bob specialises in sculpturally designed forms using distinctive glazes and styles that have become his signature. The interplay of colour and texture creates pieces that are immediately recognisable as Steiner work.
Pacific & Kiwiana Influences
Beyond pure naturalism, Bob also creates pieces with Pacific and Kiwiana-inspired designs – contemporary designer pieces that celebrate New Zealand’s unique cultural heritage.
Product Range
Wall Art
Bob’s ceramic wall art features colourful three-dimensional pieces – fantails in flight, hibiscus flowers, native leaves, and more. These pieces add texture and nature-inspired beauty to any wall.
Garden Sculptures
Outdoor-friendly ceramic pieces designed to bring artistry to gardens and outdoor spaces. Made to withstand New Zealand conditions while adding a touch of handcrafted beauty.
Tableware
Bob creates tableware available in a wide range – from contemporary designer pieces to Pacific and Kiwiana-inspired ranges. Functional art for everyday use.
Vases & Dishes
Decorative and functional pieces that showcase Bob’s mastery of form and glaze.
Collectible Works
Many of Bob’s pieces have become collectible over the past decades. His consistent quality and distinctive style have made Steiner Ceramics sought-after items for collectors of New Zealand art.
Where to Find Steiner Ceramics
Bob Steiner’s work is available through various galleries and retailers across New Zealand:
- Silver Fern Gallery – Queenstown
- Kura Gallery – Wellington & Auckland
- Auckland Museum Store
- The Cool Store Gallery
- Shop New Zealand
Explore More NZ Art
Discover our guide to NZ Ceramic Art, or explore other New Zealand artists like Glenn Jones and Flox.