Introduction to the British Ceramic Biennale
The British Ceramic Biennale is a celebration of sound, craft, skills, and art in the city of Stoke-on-Trent, where ceramics have been deeply embedded for centuries. This event, which takes place every two years, aims to focus on leading ceramicists and introduce work from new talent. The 2025 edition of the Biennale promises to be an exciting event, with a variety of exhibitions, discussions, film screenings, and tours.
What is the British Ceramic Biennale?
The British Ceramic Biennale was first founded in 2009 by the British Ceramics Biennale art group. The event is a platform for ceramic artists to showcase their work, and it has become a major event in the ceramics calendar. According to Clare Wood, artistic director and managing director, the Biennale is a "celebration of sound, craft, skills, and art" that helps to keep national and international interest in Stoke-on-Trent and its ceramics.
When and Where does it Happen?
The 2025 British Ceramic Biennale will take place in the Spode Works in Stoke-on-Trent, a former ceramic factory that has been at the heart of the ceramic industry for over two centuries. The event will begin on Saturday and will last for six weeks, ending on October 19. Visitors can attend the event for free every day between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
What to Expect
The 2025 event will feature over 70 artists, including comedian Johnny Vegas, who has worked with sculptor Emma Rodgers to create an installation called "Only There." The installation features a series of hugged clay figures next to a wall made of unburdened tone that allows visitors to express their feelings. Visitors must go through the hugged figures to get to the wall, which is described as an "unspoken emotion of love and satisfaction." Vegas’ artwork is an invitation to tell the wall – to let it out on the wall and do something destructive. As he said, "It’s an invitation to tell the wall – to let it out on the wall and do something destructive. As soon as you have done that, you can return from the avenue without resentment for love and satisfaction."
The Importance of the British Ceramic Biennale
The British Ceramic Biennale is an important event for the ceramic industry, which has been facing financial battles in recent years. The event helps to increase optimism in the industry and provides a platform for ceramic artists to showcase their work. As Clare Wood said, "We are really proud to be back at Spode Works. This is a place where so much history for Stoke-on-Trent, Ceramics, and British Ceramics Biennale has history." The event is also an opportunity for visitors to learn about ceramics and appreciate the skill and craftsmanship that goes into creating these beautiful pieces of art.
Conclusion
The 2025 British Ceramic Biennale promises to be an exciting event that showcases the best of British ceramics. With a variety of exhibitions, discussions, film screenings, and tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a ceramic artist, enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates beautiful art, the British Ceramic Biennale is an event not to be missed. As Johnny Vegas said, "People should let out in any case, but they should never let go of love." The British Ceramic Biennale is a celebration of love, satisfaction, and the beauty of ceramics.
