My Perfect Day – Lucy Ings
Updated 26 May 2026
Lucy Ings is a ceramicist who operates her business Blackburn Studio out of her backyard. Her works are found in stores around Canberra including the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre, and likely popping up at a seasonal market around town.
Lucy's Perfect Day
Morning
Intra Sausage and Egg Muffin
Afternoon
Dirty Janes Vintage Shopping
Evening
Canberra district wine region
If I had just one day left in Canberra, I’d spend it walking—taking in the city’s beauty at a slower pace. The bridge-to-bridge loop around Lake Burley Griffin is a classic, but Mount Ainslie’s sweeping views are hard to resist. Maybe I’d do both, with a pit stop at Intra in Campbell for one of their legendary sausage and egg muffins to keep me going.
When friends visit, I love showing them Canberra from the water. A picnic on a GoBoat is such a relaxing way to experience the city and get your bearings. And for panoramic views, the National Arboretum Canberra is a must—there’s something magical about seeing the city framed by its forests.
Living here influences my creativity in unexpected ways. It’s not just the landscape, though its earthy tones often find their way into my ceramic palette. It’s the people—the incredible craftspeople who inspire me to push my own boundaries. I’m constantly in awe of artists like Lea Durie (Mud Dept.), painter Penelope Boyd, and glass artist Daniel Venables. Their work reminds me why I love being part of this creative community.
Autumn is my favourite season in Canberra. The colours, the crisp air, and the buzz of events make it irresistible. The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is a tradition we never miss—it’s pure joy watching those vibrant shapes drift across the sky.
Most mornings start simply: a walk with our dog Halli to The Knox for coffee, or a short drive to Stepping Stone Café in Dickson if we’re craving their lemon drizzle cake. No elaborate routine—just caffeine and a little fresh air to spark the day.
For art and inspiration, I’m spoiled for choice. Canberra Potters and the Gallery of Small Things are just a short walk away, and I never tire of browsing Dirty Janes for vintage treasures or Meet Gather Collect for gifts and gumboots. The Curatoreum at the National Portrait Gallery is my go-to for creative books. Markets like Handmade Canberra and the Undercurrent Design Market are annual highlights.
If asked about Canberra’s hidden gems, I’d say our op-shops. They’re treasure troves for anyone who loves repurposing old furniture or finding quirky tools for creative projects.
When I need to unwind, I head to the lake—always the lake. It’s peaceful, and there are fewer snakes than in the bush! The landscape here seeps into my work in subtle ways: the earthy tones, the textures, even the natural materials I use for mark-making in clay.
For food, Kick Start is my quick lunch spot, while Heywood at Nick O’Leary’s winery is perfect for something special. And if we’re up for a short drive, Some Café in Collector feels like an almost-local favourite.
I’m a bit of a lone wolf when it comes to collaboration—maybe even a control freak—but if someone wanted to see Canberra through my eyes, I’d suggest three things: start with coffee at The Knox and a morning screening at Palace Cinema, spend time by the lake (walk it, sail it, or just soak it in at Margots or the National Museum café), and finish with a visit to a winery. Shaw Winery’s restaurant is stunning.
As for facts about Canberra? I’m hopeless with figures, but I always recommend the She Shapes History walking tour. It’s packed with incredible stories and delivered brilliantly.
Wondering where to purchase Blackburn Studio?
Meet Lucy at the Handmade Markets on 13–14 June, where every piece is made slowly, thoughtfully, and entirely by hand. Support small Australian businesses and shop directly from talented local makers while you’re there. You can also make a difference by bringing along a donation for Handmade’s annual Salvation Army blanket drive, helping keep those in need warm this winter.
If you’d prefer a calmer shopping experience, don’t miss the Low Sensory Hour from 9:00–10:00 am on Sunday, 14 June. Just be sure to register in advance, as spaces are limited.
