Limited Edition Virginia Graham Milk Jugs

Virginia Graham: Milk Jugs

Virginia is highly successful and established studio potter, surface pattern designer and colour theorist. With features in Elle Decoration, Vogue, Ceramic Review, Country Living and Period Living to her credit. Virginia established her practice over 20 years ago and has since exhibited in Japan, USA and enjoyed shows at the V&A, Selfridges,  Crafts Council Gallery and the Royal College of Art.

Known for creating handmade ceramics with a reference to historical wares, Virginia also draws inspiration  from collage techniques, vintage textiles, paper ephemera and themes of collecting and commemoration.

"Everyone has objects and possessions that they are passionate about and value most highly. Often these objects are not valuable in monetary terms but are simply everyday things that evoke memories and experiences. For this reason they are propelled to a higher status than was originally intended. My attention is drawn to the collector who consciously hoards objects. I make teapots and tea services because they are the ultimate in collectable ceramics; they are also ordinary objects that are instantly recognisable to the onlooker.

I am fascinated by the way in which these objects; that were originally intended for use, are so often collected and displayed behind glass never to be used for feat of betraying their newfound status. I use a combination of slip casting and hand-building techniques to create forms with many components, often recreating objects and placing them out of context. For example, I frequently use a tap as a mug handle or a teapot lid. Surfaces make reference to utilitarian wares from industrial ceramic history, including mochaware, cornishware and blue and white porcelain.

Floral transfers, metallic lustres and found objects are the finishing touches to create eclectic pieces that are precious and collectable yet ordinary and familiar."