Ceramic daffs blooming

Ceramic daffodils are fast sellers at The Mandarin Tree - and each sale raises vital money for cancer research.

Handcrafted by Eureka artist Christine Whiteley, the bright yellow daffs are gathering a great response in the Gordonton gallery, says owner Claudia Aalderink.

"People love them and we're getting feedback from all over the world - even Kiwis at the Rio Olympics are contacting us to put some aside so they don't miss out. It's a huge success!"

The daffodils sell for $15 each, and $2 from every sale - $1 from Christine, $1 from The Mandarin Tree - goes to the Cancer Society's Daffodil Day appeal in August.

"We've sold quite a number of them already and I've asked Christine to make some more since this fundraiser will be running all of August. So there is plenty of time for people to pop in and get one for themselves."

Claudia says such fundraisers are great to do.

"People get involved and appreciate the artistic aspect of it as well. It's a beautiful keepsake to remember those lost to this disease and contribute to the awareness and research at the same time."

Christine works in the cardiology unit at Waikato Hospital, and started ceramic art after taking her daughter to pottery classes.

"I spend my spare time in the garage with my clay and little kiln. Last year I was in the Dio Day Out garden ramble as 'an artist in the garden' - and this started my pottery sales. I like making fun colourful pieces and I get my inspiration from the garden. I have made a variety of flowers, so daffodils seemed a good idea to support the Cancer Society."

The Mandarin Tree has been showcasing her work since April.

"Christine came into the gallery one day with her work in the boot of her car and asked if I would be interested. In one glance I could see the quality and knew this would be great for the gallery. Starting with a variety of flowers - poppies, kowhai, daisies, hydrangeas - Christine's work soon became a best-selling item and she's maintained that status ever since."