Johnny Vegas creates artwork for ceramics showcase

Johnny Vegas stands in a workshop with his hands on his hips and head cocked to one side. He is standing behind a table with large brown clay models with white paint on them.Image source, British Ceramics Biennial
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Comedian Johnny Vegas has captured people's hugs in clay as part of the installation

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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.

A woman guides Johnny Vegas as he tries to form some clay in his hands.Image source, British Ceramics Biennial
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Johnny Vegas has worked with sculptor Emma Rodgers since he rediscovered his love for ceramics

"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.

Johnny Vegas looks down at a piece of clay he is trying to shape. It is placed on top of a table with other pottery items.Image source, British Ceramics Biennial
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Johnny Vegas originally trained in art and ceramics before he became a comedian

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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