Mingyu Du
Mingyu Du is a potter based in Northstowe, Cambridge, where she works from a garage converted into a studio overlooking her Zen-inspired garden. Her fascination with pottery began with hours spent admiring ancient vases at the British Museum and the work of Lucie Rie and contemporary Japanese ceramists, and her hand-thrown and hand-built pieces pursue a minimal elegance rooted in that tradition.
In 2026 she was shortlisted in the Holt Art Awards. She held a solo exhibition at Bill Brown Creative Workshops, Churchill College, University of Cambridge in 2025, and has shown at Wonky Wheel Gallery in Castle Hedingham (2025), Art@One Gallery at Hemingford Grey (2024 and 2025) and Fen Ditton Gallery, Cambridge (2023). Her work is stocked at the Kettle's Yard shop in Cambridge.
Artist Statement
Welcome to my ceramic world.
I'm a potter, wife, and mother living in Cambridge, where creativity meets everyday life. Alongside my loving family, I find inspiration in the beauty of functional art.
My fascination with pottery began with mesmerizing hours spent admiring ancient vases at the British Museum and works by legends like Lucie Rie and contemporary Japanese ceramists. Their mastery sparked a dream: to craft pieces that bring serenity to daily life.
Turning our garage into a serene studio overlooking our Zen-inspired garden was the first step. Now, I pour love into each hand-thrown and hand-built piece, striving for minimal elegance that nourishes both body and soul.
Through pottery, I've discovered my happy place - I hope my creations bring tranquility to yours.