Studio Ceramics (Victoria and Albert Museum): British Studio Pottery 1900 to Now

The V&A's collection of twentieth-century and contemporary British ceramics is showcased in a magnificent catalog. Contemporary ceramicists in Britain, such as Rachel Kneebone, Grayson Perry, and Edmund de Waal, are part of a broader international group exploring clay's intersections with other art forms and culture. The pioneering methods and rethinking of form by potters like Bernard Leach, Michael Cardew, Lucie Rie, Hans Coper, and Alan Caiger-Smith continue to influence contemporary makers. Studio Ceramics is the primary reference for 20th-century and contemporary British studio ceramics, documenting the medium's shift into an expressive and sometimes interventionist art form.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

A magnificent compendium of the V&A's collection of twentieth-century and contemporary British ceramics, this publication showcases the diverse artistry of contemporary ceramicists working in Britain. These artists, including Rachel Kneebone, Grayson Perry, and Edmund de Waal, are part of a broader international community of clay enthusiasts who explore the intersections between clay and other art forms, as well as its broader cultural significance. The recent resurgence of ceramics as a medium is largely attributed to the rapid expansion of its field, as well as the pioneering work of mid-to-late 20th-century potters who reimagined ceramics as a radical and contemporary art practice.

The influence of these pioneers extends far and wide, shaping the methods and approaches of contemporary makers. Figures such as Bernard Leach, Michael Cardew, Lucie Rie, Hans Coper, and Alan Caiger-Smith, who drew inspiration from diverse sources such as East Asia, Africa, the ancient Mediterranean, and the Middle East, continue to inspire and influence contemporary ceramicists.

In his introductory essay, Alun Graves, Senior Curator at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, provides a comprehensive historical context for those passionate about ceramics. He traces the evolution of ceramics from a utilitarian object to an expressive and sometimes interventionist art form. Studio Ceramics, an extensive visual catalogue, serves as the primary reference for 20th-century and contemporary British studio ceramics, documenting the national collection of British ceramics held at the V&A.

This publication offers a captivating glimpse into the world of contemporary ceramic art, showcasing the diverse talents and innovative approaches of British ceramicists. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of ceramics in Britain and its continued relevance in the global art scene.

Weight: 2496g
Dimension: 244 x 290 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500480892