Johnny Vegas creates artwork for ceramics showcase

Johnny Vegas, a well-known comedian, has teamed up with sculptor Emma Rodgers and local residents to create a unique art installation for the British Ceramics Biennial. The event, which starts in Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday, will feature their collaborative piece called 'Just Be There. ' This artwork is described as an 'avenue of hugs captured in clay,' and it aims to represent the feelings of love and comfort that hugs can bring. Vegas, who originally studied art and ceramics before becoming famous for his comedy, returned to his roots during the pandemic. He rediscovered his passion for ceramics nearly 30 years after graduating, and this project is a way for him to reconnect with that part of his life.

The installation is more than just clay models. Vegas and Rodgers worked with people from the city to create clay forms that represent real hugs. These clay hugs will be placed along a path, and visitors will have to walk through them to reach a special wall made of unfired clay. The organisers say that this wall is meant for people to express their emotions. Visitors can make marks, press, or draw on the wall to let out their feelings, whether they are happy, sad, or even angry. Vegas explained that the wall is an invitation for everyone, including those who might not understand art or who feel bitter. He wants people to 'tell it to the wall' and release their emotions in a creative way. After doing this, visitors can walk back through the avenue of hugs, which is meant to help them feel love and contentment again.

Vegas said that it's important for people to let out their feelings but also to hold on to love. The idea for the installation came from his own experiences living with ADHD and thinking about things like flight, faith, and fear of failure. He sees his return to ceramics as an 'unfinished part' of his story, and he hopes that the installation will help others connect with their emotions and with art. The British Ceramics Biennial will be held at the Spode Works until 19 October, featuring work from leading ceramic artists as well as new talent. Visitors will have the chance to see a wide range of pottery and participate in activities that encourage self-expression. Vegas hopes that his avenue of hugs will inspire people to appreciate the power of love and the importance of expressing their feelings through art.