Young people from Stoke-on-Trent who are passionate about ceramics have the chance to take part in an international exchange with artists from Poland.
The British Ceramics Biennial (BCB) has launched the Ceramic Cities Exchange, a new programme designed to connect young ceramic artists in Stoke-on-Trent and Bolesławiec in south-west Poland.
The initiative begins with a free digital exchange, allowing up to 12 artists aged 18 to 24 to connect online, share cultural insights and explore each city’s ceramic heritage.
Six of the artists will be chosen to take part in a fully funded week-long visit to Bolesławiec from August 14 to 20. During their stay, they will visit ceramic collections, factories and studios before creating new works to be exhibited at the Ceramics Museum of Bolesławiec.
Known for its sponge decorating techniques, the town hosts a renowned ceramics festival every August, which participants will also get to experience.
BCB is now looking for applicants from Stoke-on-Trent who have experience in ceramics, can commit to a seven-month programme – largely taking place in early evenings and weekends – and have faced financial barriers, such as being eligible for free school meals.
Clare Wood, BCB’s artistic director and chief executive, said: “This programme is a fantastic opportunity for young ceramic artists in Stoke-on-Trent to connect with their peers in Bolesławiec, a town with a rich and inspiring ceramic heritage.
“We’re excited to support the next generation of makers in developing their skills, expanding their creative networks and exploring how ceramics can bring people and cultures together, which is particularly relevant in Stoke-on-Trent’s centenary year.
“We especially want to reach out to people who might not have had the chance to take part in something like this before, so we encourage anyone interested to apply or to share this opportunity with young artists who could benefit.”
The Ceramic Cities Exchange is supported by the British Council as part of the UK/Poland Season 2025, alongside the Polish Cultural Institute in London and the Polonia Aid Foundation Trust.
Applications can be submitted in a variety of formats, including written and video, with a deadline of April 30. For more information and to apply, visit https://www.
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