Johnny Vegas creates artwork for ceramics showcase

Comedian Johnny Vegas has collaborated with a sculptor to create an installation for an upcoming pottery showcase.

Called Just Be There, the artwork is described as an “avenue of hugs captured in clay” and will feature at the British Ceramics Biennial, which begins in Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday.

Vegas, who trained in art and ceramics before becoming a comedian, worked with sculptor Emma Rodgers and people from the city to fix their hugs into clay.

The hugged forms will sit alongside a wall of unfired clay and organisers said people would be able to “express their feelings” by making marks on the wall.

To get to and from the wall, visitors will need to walk through the avenue of hugs, described as representing “unspoken emotions of love and contentment”.

Vegas said the wall of unfired clay was an invitation to people “who did not get art” as well as those who were unhappy or bitter.

“It’s an invitation to tell it to the wall – to let it out on the wall and do something a bit destructive,” he said.

“Once they’ve done that, they can walk back through the avenue without resentment for love and contentment.”

He added that people should “by all means let it out” but they should “never let go of love”.

The installation was conceived by Vegas, who drew upon his experiences of living with ADHD and explored concepts including flight, faith and fear of failure.

He rediscovered his love for ceramics during the pandemic, nearly 30 years after he first graduated, and described his return to the artform as an “unfinished part” of his story.

The British Ceramics Biennial will be held at the Spode Works until 19 October and will feature work from leading ceramic artists and new talent.

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