Ceramic Cats Inspired by John Bunyan’s Progress
The ceramic artists Vicky Lindo and Bill Brookes have created a series of ceramic cats that were inspired by John Bunyan’s Progress. These cats were part of the Bawden and Me exhibition at The Higgins Bedford, which featured 40 artists and creators who were able to access Edward Bawden’s extensive archive to create new pieces inspired by his art.
The Inspiration Behind the Cats
Miss Lindo said she was drawn to Bawden’s tapestry about the pilgrim’s progress, Bunyan’s dream. She didn’t know the story, but listened to the audio book while working, which became an "immersive research". The cats were selected as the main inspiration because they are their "DNA" and Bawden was "cat mad".
The Exhibition and Its Success
The Bawden and Me exhibition was one of the most successful exhibitions at The Higgins Bedford, attracting 36,000 visitors. The cats were a highlight of the exhibition, with many visitors admiring their unique interpretation of John Bunyan’s story. Ms. Partridge, the curator of fine and ceramic arts, said: "When the cats could be seen, they were generally admired, especially children, because it is a nice way to talk about John Bunyan’s story through the medium of cats."
The Purchase of the Cats
The cats were bought by the museum for £6,000, with £4,800 coming from the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund and £1,200 from the trustees of the Cecil Higgins Art Gallery. Miss Lindo said: "It is the ultimate for an artist to have their work in public collections, as if we die, it will still be there." The cats are the only works from the special exhibition that were bought by the museum.
A Permanent Home for the Cats
The cats will now have a permanent home at The Higgins Bedford, where they can be admired by visitors for years to come. Miss Lindo said it was "amazing" that the cats would now have a permanent home in the museum. Ms. Partridge said: "I am thrilled that we can keep them in Bedford forever – it’s really huge news." The cats are a unique and special addition to the museum’s collection, and their story is a testament to the power of art to inspire and delight.
