Past events
THE KEN STRADLING COLLECTION
Stradling Gallery
48 Park Row, Bristol BS1 5LH, UK
(+44)117 3290566
GROUND FLOOR GALLERY
Currently closed
Opening again for our next exhibition
12 February – 14 May 2022
We will be open on Saturdays:
Exact times TBC
Please email us to arrange or join
group tours at other times.
Registered Charity no. 1117689
Picturing Lockdown
PICTURING LOCKDOWN – The Pandemic Diaries and other projects.
2 October – 13 November 2021
In November last year at the start of the second lockdown our Education officer David Beech met with students and their tutors to discuss collaborative projects relating to the experience of Covid-19 and the constraints of lockdown.
The projects included The Pandemic Diaries and The Pandemic Home and the creative response from 12-year-olds to degree students forms the content of our exhibition. Diaries, dioramas, poems, photographs, posters, and ceramics reflect their feelings and observations of this difficult period in their lives. Frustration, boredom and anxiety are common themes but there is also the resilience, humour, insight and talent of almost 100 contributors. Just as that the Mass Observation Diaries of World War 2 provided an invaluable record of life in this country, so this exhibition illuminates the lives of (mostly) young people in a time of shared adversity.
Open Wednesdays and Saturdays 11.30 – 15.00. Admission Free (donations welcome)
The Stradling Gallery, 48 Park Row, Bristol BS1 5LH
For more on this show go to our blog post Picturing Lockdown: The Pandemic Diaries and other projects
More information >
Doris Hatt – Revolutionary Artist
Online Zoom talk by Stephen Lisney
Wednesday 1 September and Wednesday 22 September both at 7.30
Stephen is co-author of the book, ‘Doris Hatt – Revolutionary Artist’. His illustrated talk explores Doris Hatt’s fascinating life story as artist, feminist and socialist.A growing band of people are championing Doris Hatt’s work as deserving greater recognition – join this Zoom talk to find out why people are passionate about her art and her generous life spirit.This event has now taken place.
More information >
The Future is Here – the Swinging Sixties
Saturday 26 June – Saturday 25 September 2021
Open – Wednesdays and Saturdays 11.30 – 3pm
Please note that in light of Covid-19 we are introducing timed, booked visits for this exhibition and limiting the number of visitors in the gallery to six at any one time.
The exhibition explores the futuristic atmosphere of the swinging sixties through design as lived in the home.
The 1960s were exciting times. The range of goods for the British home interior blossomed, emerging from the restrictions left over from the Second World War and embracing new materials and ideas.
Ken Stradling was instrumental in bringing the latest contemporary designs in domestic ware and furniture to the Bristol Guild to inspire customers throughout the region.
Come and explore the designs by women and men who devoted their lives to creating new and lively products to delight people in their homes.
More information >
To Radically Reconfigure: Intuitive
An exhibition of ceramics by third year students at Cardiff School of Art in three parts.Part 1: 8 March – 1 April 2021 – Intuitive – Rosie Harman, Paul Kharade, Claire StephensVisit any time of day or night as the exhibition is designed to be seen from the street.Our latest Covid safe window exhibition showcases work by Ceramics students of Cardiff School of Art and Design made in response to the KSC but delayed by a year due to, you guessed it, Covid 19.Each year the students bring something different to the way they display their work and this year they have divided their group of nine participants into three separate monthly exhibitions from March to May, each with a different theme.The first in this series shows work resulting from an intuitive response to objects in the KSC.In addition to the gallery window display, the group have made a wonderful film which is viewable in the first floor windows from the street as it gets dark outside. It lasts about 10 minutes and is well worth weaving in to your early evening stroll around the centre of Bristol. It’s best seen from the opposite side of the street.We can imagine how hard it has been for students not being able to work together in the studios, sharing ideas, experiments, laughter. But the desire to create something special despite the obstacles shines through in the work on display.More information >
Making Joy – Fire and Ice
17 December 2020 – 28 February 2021
A joyous, colourful glass exhibition for the deep winter, defying Covid by being viewable from the street.
There is some exceptional handmade glass being made and displayed in Bristol and we would like to shine a spotlight on this wonderful world of colour. We have invited Bristol Blue Glass and CatMackGlass to take part in Fire and Ice to help us celebrate the creativity of Bristol.
The exhibition is designed to be viewed entirely from the street outside, using the facade of 48 Park Row. Wrap up warm and include us in your walk around town. Why not post a photo or two on social media – the exhibition looks particularly dazzling in the dark.
From our own Collection we are exhibiting a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours and tinsel tones to add a seasonal sparkle for Bristolians taking a walk along Park Row. Fire and Ice brings together the vivid coloured glass of Whitefriars, Britain’s most daring glassworks of the 20th century, with the bold ice white forms of mid-century Scandinavian glassmaking.
https://www.instagram.com/stradlingcollection/ https://twitter.com/StradlingColl https://www.facebook.com/stradlingcollection
Bristol Blue Glass Bristol has a history of glassblowing going back to the 1500s, and is known the world over for its famous cobalt blue glass. Thanks to the team at Bristol Blue for the wonderful hot glass photos in the top gallery windows.
https://bristol-glass.co.uk https://twitter.com/BristolGlass https://www.instagram.com/bristolblueglass
CatMackGlass
Based at CentreSpace in the heart of Bristol, Catriona Mackenzie, aka CatMacKGlass, is a glass artist skilled in hot and cold glass techniques, for whom the tactility of glass plays an important role. Her work ranges from blown glass that has red and orange firey tones, made hot and in organic shapes, to cooler shades inspired by woodlands promoting sanctuary. Together with Cat’s jewellery designs, all her work is about bringing joy and comfort through touch and contemplation
http://www.catmackglass.com https://www.instagram.com/catmackglass
More information >
Making Useful Simple – Geoffrey Whiting (1919-1988)
October 10th – December 14th 2020
Making Useful Simple is illustrated through the work of Geoffrey Whiting and his skill in bringing out the beauty of the materials, while making simple, useful objects.
The exhibition is being displayed in the front windows of the Stradling Gallery and is designed to be viewed entirely from the street outside. So if you are in the Bristol area, you can fit Park Row into your walk to enjoy the exhibition at any time of day or night, despite Covid-19 restrictions.
Geoffrey Whiting(1919-1988) is one of the most successful British studio potters of the twentieth century. He set up his own potteries, and exhibited widely. His attitude to his craft was direct and uncluttered. He has been described as a ‘potter’s potter’ with his teapots being renowned because of their elegant and balanced forms. Whiting is recognised for his deep engagement in the design and making of every aspect of the object, from raw materials and equipment to glazes and pouring tea.
Created with the help of Geoffrey’s son David, the art critic and writer on studio ceramics, this innovative exhibition enables the public to enjoy the work of an artist whose understated pottery continues to inspire.
Follow the story on our blog:
http://stradlingcollection.wordpress.com,
https://www.instagram.com/stradlingcollection/ https://twitter.com/StradlingColl https://www.facebook.com/stradlingcollection
More information >
Covid or no Covid we’re still here!
Just in case you thought nothing was happening at the Stradling Collection… be assured the team are hard at work planning new and exciting things to do and see.
Have a look at our current online exhibition ‘Loved Designs’.
More information >
Bauhaus and Beyond
29 February – 28 March 2020 (Cancelled due to Coronavirus from 18 March)
As part of our Bauhaus in Bristol season we have invited students to create artworks in response to the Bauhaus. Bauhaus and Beyond will illustrate how the influential teaching methods and creative practice originating from the Bauhaus remain as relevant today as ever.
This promises to be a lively and dynamic exhibition showcasing the work of students from UWE, Bristol School of Art (SGS College), Cardiff School of Art and Design, Bedminster Down School, Bristol Metropolitan Academy and The Castle School.
To coincide with the launch on the 29 February we are offering a guided tour of the upper floors from 12.00 – 1.00. This tour is now fully booked.
In addition to seeing the furniture Marcel Breuer designed for Crofton Gane in the 1930s you will hear some fascinating stories behind many of the glass, ceramic and sculptural objects on view upstairs, as well as the history of the building itself.Please be aware that there are two flights of stairs to reach the top floor, with hand rails on each side. The tour takes about an hour and costs £8 which is payable on the door. Places are limited so booking is essential by emailing juliadonnelly@stradlingcollection.org. We can’t accept payment by card.
The Stradling Gallery is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11.00 – 4.00 during Bauhaus and Beyond. Free admission.
More information >
The Bauhaus in Bristol
14 September 2019 – 25 January 2020
The Ken Stradling Collection is very pleased to be taking part in the international celebrations marking the centenary of the Bauhaus.
The Bauhaus in Bristol traces the story of the remarkable friendship between Bristol furniture manufacturer Crofton Gane and leading Bauhaus furniture designer and architect Marcel Breuer. Begun in the 1930s and lasting their whole lives, it put Bristol firmly on the Modernist map. Furniture designed by Breuer and made in Bristol for Crofton Gane will be on display in the ground floor gallery alongside archive material and a model of the Breuer designed Gane Pavilion.
The KSC Gallery is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11am – 4pm during the exhibition.
FREE ADMISSION
Bauhaus in Bristol Events
Alongside the exhibition we presented a number of exciting events which delved further into this fascinating story. Priority booking for Friends of the KSC.
11 Jan 2020. Printing the Bauhaus Way. A workshop for 16+ years, led by Oliver Kent and Oli Timmins in conjunction with Bristol School of Art. Venue: The Print Studios at the Bristol School of Art. 9.30 – 12.30 / 13.30 – 16.30 Tickets: £20.
27 Nov. A Life in Design: Peter Metcalfe in conversation with Cleo Witt. Bristol Guild Cafe 7.00 – 8.30 Tickets: £10/ £5 students to include a glass of wine or soft drink.
16 Nov. Breuer in Bristol Symposium with guest speakers including: Leyla Daybelge & Magnus Englund, Max Gane, Oliver Kent, Phil O’Shaughnessy, Alan Powers, Christopher Wilk and Chris Yeo, chaired by Cleo Witt. Arnolfini, Bristol. 9.30 – 17.00 Tickets: £30/ (students £15) including light lunch.
30 Oct. An Evening with Crofton Gane featuring Max Gane, Crofton’s great-grandson and friends. The Folk House, Park St, Bristol. 7.30 – 9.00 Tickets: £10 (students £5)
Free drop-in tours of the exhibition at the Stradling Gallery: 14 Oct 12.30 – 1.30 / 11 Dec 12.30 – 1.30 / 15 Jan 12.30 – 1.30
We are grateful to the Arts Council England and the Gane Trust for supporting the exhibition and related events.
More information >
Ken Stradling’s Eye
Modern Design in Britain
An exhibition featuring studio ceramics, studio glass, domestic ware, sculpture, chairs, prints, tiles………..
13 July – 24 August 2019
Ken’s collection demonstrates a lifelong fascination with the making of domestic objects in his own time, and a commitment to sharing it with others. This exhibition encapsulates the breadth of the collection with a liveliness and lightness of touch.
The KSC Gallery is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11am – 4pm during the exhibition.
FREE ADMISSION
More information >
Kenn Diagram Exhibition
An exhibition of ceramics from Cardiff School of Art and Design at the Ken Stradling Collection.
Private View Tuesday 11 June from 5.00 – 7.00
Exhibition dates: Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 June 2019, 11.00 – 4.00
A reimagining of the Ken Stradling Collection by CSAD ceramic students, examining the intersections of the objects and their narratives.
We are delighted to be presenting our third exhibition by ceramics students from CSAD who have made work inspired by objects from the KSC – it is always an exciting and vibrant occasion.
Please make the date in your diary – it is a very short run exhibition.
More information >
Makers of Tomorrow
At the KSC we have been piloting a number of projects with local schools, colleges and universities. Our exhibition, Makers of Tomorrow, showcases for the first time the work that has been achieved through those projects and collaborations.
On show will be work by students from Bedminster Down School, Bristol Metropolitan Academy, Bristol School of Art (SGS College), Falmouth University, University of the West of England and Cardiff School of Art and Design alongside objects from the KSC which inspired the students.
Come and see what amazing work is being made in the region and find out how the KSC is inspiring and supporting students and teachers.
The exhibition runs from 22 May – 8 June 2019 and is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays 11.00 – 4.00
Free admission
More information >-
Doris Hatt – Revolutionary Artist
Online Zoom talk by Stephen Lisney
Wednesday 1 September and Wednesday 22 September both at 7.30
Stephen is co-author of the book, ‘Doris Hatt – Revolutionary Artist’. His illustrated talk explores Doris Hatt’s fascinating life story as artist, feminist and socialist.A growing band of people are championing Doris Hatt’s work as deserving greater recognition – join this Zoom talk to find out why people are passionate about her art and her generous life spirit.This event has now taken place.
More information > -
The Future is Here – the Swinging Sixties
Saturday 26 June – Saturday 25 September 2021
Open – Wednesdays and Saturdays 11.30 – 3pm
Please note that in light of Covid-19 we are introducing timed, booked visits for this exhibition and limiting the number of visitors in the gallery to six at any one time.
The exhibition explores the futuristic atmosphere of the swinging sixties through design as lived in the home.
The 1960s were exciting times. The range of goods for the British home interior blossomed, emerging from the restrictions left over from the Second World War and embracing new materials and ideas.
Ken Stradling was instrumental in bringing the latest contemporary designs in domestic ware and furniture to the Bristol Guild to inspire customers throughout the region.
Come and explore the designs by women and men who devoted their lives to creating new and lively products to delight people in their homes.
More information > -
To Radically Reconfigure: Intuitive
An exhibition of ceramics by third year students at Cardiff School of Art in three parts.Part 1: 8 March – 1 April 2021 – Intuitive – Rosie Harman, Paul Kharade, Claire StephensVisit any time of day or night as the exhibition is designed to be seen from the street.Our latest Covid safe window exhibition showcases work by Ceramics students of Cardiff School of Art and Design made in response to the KSC but delayed by a year due to, you guessed it, Covid 19.Each year the students bring something different to the way they display their work and this year they have divided their group of nine participants into three separate monthly exhibitions from March to May, each with a different theme.The first in this series shows work resulting from an intuitive response to objects in the KSC.In addition to the gallery window display, the group have made a wonderful film which is viewable in the first floor windows from the street as it gets dark outside. It lasts about 10 minutes and is well worth weaving in to your early evening stroll around the centre of Bristol. It’s best seen from the opposite side of the street.We can imagine how hard it has been for students not being able to work together in the studios, sharing ideas, experiments, laughter. But the desire to create something special despite the obstacles shines through in the work on display.More information > -
Making Useful Simple – Geoffrey Whiting (1919-1988)
October 10th – December 14th 2020
Making Useful Simple is illustrated through the work of Geoffrey Whiting and his skill in bringing out the beauty of the materials, while making simple, useful objects.
The exhibition is being displayed in the front windows of the Stradling Gallery and is designed to be viewed entirely from the street outside. So if you are in the Bristol area, you can fit Park Row into your walk to enjoy the exhibition at any time of day or night, despite Covid-19 restrictions.
Geoffrey Whiting(1919-1988) is one of the most successful British studio potters of the twentieth century. He set up his own potteries, and exhibited widely. His attitude to his craft was direct and uncluttered. He has been described as a ‘potter’s potter’ with his teapots being renowned because of their elegant and balanced forms. Whiting is recognised for his deep engagement in the design and making of every aspect of the object, from raw materials and equipment to glazes and pouring tea.
Created with the help of Geoffrey’s son David, the art critic and writer on studio ceramics, this innovative exhibition enables the public to enjoy the work of an artist whose understated pottery continues to inspire.
Follow the story on our blog:
http://stradlingcollection.wordpress.com,
https://www.instagram.com/stradlingcollection/ https://twitter.com/StradlingColl https://www.facebook.com/stradlingcollection
More information > -
Bauhaus and Beyond
29 February – 28 March 2020 (Cancelled due to Coronavirus from 18 March)
As part of our Bauhaus in Bristol season we have invited students to create artworks in response to the Bauhaus. Bauhaus and Beyond will illustrate how the influential teaching methods and creative practice originating from the Bauhaus remain as relevant today as ever.
This promises to be a lively and dynamic exhibition showcasing the work of students from UWE, Bristol School of Art (SGS College), Cardiff School of Art and Design, Bedminster Down School, Bristol Metropolitan Academy and The Castle School.
To coincide with the launch on the 29 February we are offering a guided tour of the upper floors from 12.00 – 1.00. This tour is now fully booked.
In addition to seeing the furniture Marcel Breuer designed for Crofton Gane in the 1930s you will hear some fascinating stories behind many of the glass, ceramic and sculptural objects on view upstairs, as well as the history of the building itself.Please be aware that there are two flights of stairs to reach the top floor, with hand rails on each side. The tour takes about an hour and costs £8 which is payable on the door. Places are limited so booking is essential by emailing juliadonnelly@stradlingcollection.org. We can’t accept payment by card.
The Stradling Gallery is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11.00 – 4.00 during Bauhaus and Beyond. Free admission.
More information > -
The Bauhaus in Bristol
14 September 2019 – 25 January 2020
The Ken Stradling Collection is very pleased to be taking part in the international celebrations marking the centenary of the Bauhaus.
The Bauhaus in Bristol traces the story of the remarkable friendship between Bristol furniture manufacturer Crofton Gane and leading Bauhaus furniture designer and architect Marcel Breuer. Begun in the 1930s and lasting their whole lives, it put Bristol firmly on the Modernist map. Furniture designed by Breuer and made in Bristol for Crofton Gane will be on display in the ground floor gallery alongside archive material and a model of the Breuer designed Gane Pavilion.
The KSC Gallery is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11am – 4pm during the exhibition.
FREE ADMISSION
Bauhaus in Bristol Events
Alongside the exhibition we presented a number of exciting events which delved further into this fascinating story. Priority booking for Friends of the KSC.
11 Jan 2020. Printing the Bauhaus Way. A workshop for 16+ years, led by Oliver Kent and Oli Timmins in conjunction with Bristol School of Art. Venue: The Print Studios at the Bristol School of Art. 9.30 – 12.30 / 13.30 – 16.30 Tickets: £20.
27 Nov. A Life in Design: Peter Metcalfe in conversation with Cleo Witt. Bristol Guild Cafe 7.00 – 8.30 Tickets: £10/ £5 students to include a glass of wine or soft drink.
16 Nov. Breuer in Bristol Symposium with guest speakers including: Leyla Daybelge & Magnus Englund, Max Gane, Oliver Kent, Phil O’Shaughnessy, Alan Powers, Christopher Wilk and Chris Yeo, chaired by Cleo Witt. Arnolfini, Bristol. 9.30 – 17.00 Tickets: £30/ (students £15) including light lunch.
30 Oct. An Evening with Crofton Gane featuring Max Gane, Crofton’s great-grandson and friends. The Folk House, Park St, Bristol. 7.30 – 9.00 Tickets: £10 (students £5)
Free drop-in tours of the exhibition at the Stradling Gallery: 14 Oct 12.30 – 1.30 / 11 Dec 12.30 – 1.30 / 15 Jan 12.30 – 1.30
We are grateful to the Arts Council England and the Gane Trust for supporting the exhibition and related events.
More information > -
Ken Stradling’s Eye
Modern Design in Britain
An exhibition featuring studio ceramics, studio glass, domestic ware, sculpture, chairs, prints, tiles………..
13 July – 24 August 2019
Ken’s collection demonstrates a lifelong fascination with the making of domestic objects in his own time, and a commitment to sharing it with others. This exhibition encapsulates the breadth of the collection with a liveliness and lightness of touch.
The KSC Gallery is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11am – 4pm during the exhibition.
FREE ADMISSION
More information > -
Kenn Diagram Exhibition
An exhibition of ceramics from Cardiff School of Art and Design at the Ken Stradling Collection.
Private View Tuesday 11 June from 5.00 – 7.00
Exhibition dates: Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 June 2019, 11.00 – 4.00
A reimagining of the Ken Stradling Collection by CSAD ceramic students, examining the intersections of the objects and their narratives.
We are delighted to be presenting our third exhibition by ceramics students from CSAD who have made work inspired by objects from the KSC – it is always an exciting and vibrant occasion.
Please make the date in your diary – it is a very short run exhibition.
More information > -
Makers of Tomorrow
At the KSC we have been piloting a number of projects with local schools, colleges and universities. Our exhibition, Makers of Tomorrow, showcases for the first time the work that has been achieved through those projects and collaborations.
On show will be work by students from Bedminster Down School, Bristol Metropolitan Academy, Bristol School of Art (SGS College), Falmouth University, University of the West of England and Cardiff School of Art and Design alongside objects from the KSC which inspired the students.
Come and see what amazing work is being made in the region and find out how the KSC is inspiring and supporting students and teachers.
The exhibition runs from 22 May – 8 June 2019 and is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays 11.00 – 4.00
Free admission
More information > 
Expressive Clay
The London Art Schools of the 1950s and 60s and their Legacy
Saturday 30 March – Saturday 11 May 2019
An exhibition of British Studio Pottery from the Ken Stradling Collection curated by David Whiting.
We are delighted that David Whiting will be at the launch on 30 March and happy to discuss aspects of the exhibition with visitors.
Expressive Clay explores the free and expressive use of clay in British studio ceramics that emanated from the London art schools in the 1950s and 60s. Focussed on art colleges like the Central School, Camberwell College of Arts and Crafts and the Institute of Education, this work moved away from functional wares to a more sculptural approach to the material that was characterised by free throwing and radical hand-building methods.
We are holding an “in conversation” with David Whiting, Chris Yeo (KSC Curator) and Dr Oliver Kent (ceramicist and KSC Trustee) on Tuesday 16 April at 6.30pm at the Stradling Gallery.
Tickets for this event are £10 (£5 students) to include a glass of wine or soft drink. Places are limited so please book early by emailing juliadonnelly@stradlingcollection.orgThe Stradling Gallery is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11am – 4pm during the exhibition.
FREE ADMISSION
More information >
Guided tour of the KSC
Curious about what’s upstairs at the KSC?
Then join curator Chris Yeo on a guided tour of the upper floors
on
Saturday 2 March 2019 at 11.30You will hear how Marcel Breuer came to design furniture for Bristol furniture manufacturer Crofton Gane in the 1930s, and fascinating stories behind many of the glass, ceramic and sculptural objects on view upstairs, as well as the history of the building itself.
Please be aware that there are two flights of stairs to reach the top floor, with hand rails on each side.
The tour takes about an hour and costs £8 which is payable on the door. Places are limited so booking is essential by emailing juliadonnelly@stradlingcollection.org
More information >
We can’t accept payment by card.
GlassWorks exhibition
Wednesday 14 November 2018 – Wednesday 20 February 2019
The Stradling Gallery is delighted to present an exhibition of contrasts. The Glassworks exhibition features glass artefacts created via 3D printing alongside classic mid-century to present day glass objects from the Ken Stradling Collection.
The glass artefacts are the results of a research workshop led by UWE Senior Research Fellow, Tavs Jorgensen in collaboration with glass artist Angela Thwaites. Participants from a wide range disciplines were involved to explore the use of glass investment casting with 3D printed mould patterns in their particular field, including: engineering, fashion, fine art, physics, craft, textiles, architecture, jewelry, graphics and digital media. The exhibition is a great opportunity to see how new digital processes in combination with traditional skills can deliver the seeds for innovation for new applications with the glass medium.
Alongside this display of this cutting edge research will be classic British and European studio glass from the Ken Stradling Collection. Ken has been collecting glass since the 1950s, and is delighted to be able to show these exciting new forms in the Stradling Gallery.
GlassWorks exhibition has been extended and will be open to view every Wednesday between 11.00 and 4.00 at the Stradling Gallery until 20 February 2019.
Free Admission.
More information >-
Ken Stradling Collection Celebrates Christmas
Ken Stradling Collection Celebrates Christmas
Sat 20 Nov – Wed 22 December. Open Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 11 – 4.00 No need to book, please wear a mask.
The Ken Stradling Collection is delighted to present a selling exhibition of artworks by Bristol makers in its ground floor gallery as Christmas approaches. On show will be sculpture, ceramics, glass, photography, jewellery, prints, drawings and cards, by makers who all have a connection to the KSC. Ken Stradling has championed artists, designers and makers throughout his life, and this autumn feels like a good time to continue in this tradition.
As we are trying to find ways to minimise our impact on the world, buying handmade artefacts from local artists is a fun and positive way of reducing that impact.
Bristol is a city full of creatives and this is a great chance to see and even buy some of the wonderful work they are producing, whether as Christmas presents for others or for yourself!
More information > -
Picturing Lockdown
PICTURING LOCKDOWN – The Pandemic Diaries and other projects.
2 October – 13 November 2021
In November last year at the start of the second lockdown our Education officer David Beech met with students and their tutors to discuss collaborative projects relating to the experience of Covid-19 and the constraints of lockdown.
The projects included The Pandemic Diaries and The Pandemic Home and the creative response from 12-year-olds to degree students forms the content of our exhibition. Diaries, dioramas, poems, photographs, posters, and ceramics reflect their feelings and observations of this difficult period in their lives. Frustration, boredom and anxiety are common themes but there is also the resilience, humour, insight and talent of almost 100 contributors. Just as that the Mass Observation Diaries of World War 2 provided an invaluable record of life in this country, so this exhibition illuminates the lives of (mostly) young people in a time of shared adversity.
Open Wednesdays and Saturdays 11.30 – 15.00. Admission Free (donations welcome)
The Stradling Gallery, 48 Park Row, Bristol BS1 5LH
For more on this show go to our blog post Picturing Lockdown: The Pandemic Diaries and other projects
More information > -
Doris Hatt – Revolutionary Artist
Online Zoom talk by Stephen Lisney
Wednesday 1 September and Wednesday 22 September both at 7.30
Stephen is co-author of the book, ‘Doris Hatt – Revolutionary Artist’. His illustrated talk explores Doris Hatt’s fascinating life story as artist, feminist and socialist.A growing band of people are championing Doris Hatt’s work as deserving greater recognition – join this Zoom talk to find out why people are passionate about her art and her generous life spirit.This event has now taken place.
More information > -
The Future is Here – the Swinging Sixties
Saturday 26 June – Saturday 25 September 2021
Open – Wednesdays and Saturdays 11.30 – 3pm
Please note that in light of Covid-19 we are introducing timed, booked visits for this exhibition and limiting the number of visitors in the gallery to six at any one time.
The exhibition explores the futuristic atmosphere of the swinging sixties through design as lived in the home.
The 1960s were exciting times. The range of goods for the British home interior blossomed, emerging from the restrictions left over from the Second World War and embracing new materials and ideas.
Ken Stradling was instrumental in bringing the latest contemporary designs in domestic ware and furniture to the Bristol Guild to inspire customers throughout the region.
Come and explore the designs by women and men who devoted their lives to creating new and lively products to delight people in their homes.
More information > -
To Radically Reconfigure: Intuitive
An exhibition of ceramics by third year students at Cardiff School of Art in three parts.Part 1: 8 March – 1 April 2021 – Intuitive – Rosie Harman, Paul Kharade, Claire StephensVisit any time of day or night as the exhibition is designed to be seen from the street.Our latest Covid safe window exhibition showcases work by Ceramics students of Cardiff School of Art and Design made in response to the KSC but delayed by a year due to, you guessed it, Covid 19.Each year the students bring something different to the way they display their work and this year they have divided their group of nine participants into three separate monthly exhibitions from March to May, each with a different theme.The first in this series shows work resulting from an intuitive response to objects in the KSC.In addition to the gallery window display, the group have made a wonderful film which is viewable in the first floor windows from the street as it gets dark outside. It lasts about 10 minutes and is well worth weaving in to your early evening stroll around the centre of Bristol. It’s best seen from the opposite side of the street.We can imagine how hard it has been for students not being able to work together in the studios, sharing ideas, experiments, laughter. But the desire to create something special despite the obstacles shines through in the work on display.More information > -
Making Joy – Fire and Ice
17 December 2020 – 28 February 2021
A joyous, colourful glass exhibition for the deep winter, defying Covid by being viewable from the street.
There is some exceptional handmade glass being made and displayed in Bristol and we would like to shine a spotlight on this wonderful world of colour. We have invited Bristol Blue Glass and CatMackGlass to take part in Fire and Ice to help us celebrate the creativity of Bristol.
The exhibition is designed to be viewed entirely from the street outside, using the facade of 48 Park Row. Wrap up warm and include us in your walk around town. Why not post a photo or two on social media – the exhibition looks particularly dazzling in the dark.
From our own Collection we are exhibiting a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours and tinsel tones to add a seasonal sparkle for Bristolians taking a walk along Park Row. Fire and Ice brings together the vivid coloured glass of Whitefriars, Britain’s most daring glassworks of the 20th century, with the bold ice white forms of mid-century Scandinavian glassmaking.
https://www.instagram.com/stradlingcollection/ https://twitter.com/StradlingColl https://www.facebook.com/stradlingcollection
Bristol Blue Glass Bristol has a history of glassblowing going back to the 1500s, and is known the world over for its famous cobalt blue glass. Thanks to the team at Bristol Blue for the wonderful hot glass photos in the top gallery windows.
https://bristol-glass.co.uk https://twitter.com/BristolGlass https://www.instagram.com/bristolblueglass
CatMackGlass
Based at CentreSpace in the heart of Bristol, Catriona Mackenzie, aka CatMacKGlass, is a glass artist skilled in hot and cold glass techniques, for whom the tactility of glass plays an important role. Her work ranges from blown glass that has red and orange firey tones, made hot and in organic shapes, to cooler shades inspired by woodlands promoting sanctuary. Together with Cat’s jewellery designs, all her work is about bringing joy and comfort through touch and contemplation
http://www.catmackglass.com https://www.instagram.com/catmackglass
More information > -
Making Useful Simple – Geoffrey Whiting (1919-1988)
October 10th – December 14th 2020
Making Useful Simple is illustrated through the work of Geoffrey Whiting and his skill in bringing out the beauty of the materials, while making simple, useful objects.
The exhibition is being displayed in the front windows of the Stradling Gallery and is designed to be viewed entirely from the street outside. So if you are in the Bristol area, you can fit Park Row into your walk to enjoy the exhibition at any time of day or night, despite Covid-19 restrictions.
Geoffrey Whiting(1919-1988) is one of the most successful British studio potters of the twentieth century. He set up his own potteries, and exhibited widely. His attitude to his craft was direct and uncluttered. He has been described as a ‘potter’s potter’ with his teapots being renowned because of their elegant and balanced forms. Whiting is recognised for his deep engagement in the design and making of every aspect of the object, from raw materials and equipment to glazes and pouring tea.
Created with the help of Geoffrey’s son David, the art critic and writer on studio ceramics, this innovative exhibition enables the public to enjoy the work of an artist whose understated pottery continues to inspire.
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Covid or no Covid we’re still here!
Just in case you thought nothing was happening at the Stradling Collection… be assured the team are hard at work planning new and exciting things to do and see.
Have a look at our current online exhibition ‘Loved Designs’.
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Bauhaus and Beyond
29 February – 28 March 2020 (Cancelled due to Coronavirus from 18 March)
As part of our Bauhaus in Bristol season we have invited students to create artworks in response to the Bauhaus. Bauhaus and Beyond will illustrate how the influential teaching methods and creative practice originating from the Bauhaus remain as relevant today as ever.
This promises to be a lively and dynamic exhibition showcasing the work of students from UWE, Bristol School of Art (SGS College), Cardiff School of Art and Design, Bedminster Down School, Bristol Metropolitan Academy and The Castle School.
To coincide with the launch on the 29 February we are offering a guided tour of the upper floors from 12.00 – 1.00. This tour is now fully booked.
In addition to seeing the furniture Marcel Breuer designed for Crofton Gane in the 1930s you will hear some fascinating stories behind many of the glass, ceramic and sculptural objects on view upstairs, as well as the history of the building itself.Please be aware that there are two flights of stairs to reach the top floor, with hand rails on each side. The tour takes about an hour and costs £8 which is payable on the door. Places are limited so booking is essential by emailing juliadonnelly@stradlingcollection.org. We can’t accept payment by card.
The Stradling Gallery is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11.00 – 4.00 during Bauhaus and Beyond. Free admission.
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The Bauhaus in Bristol
14 September 2019 – 25 January 2020
The Ken Stradling Collection is very pleased to be taking part in the international celebrations marking the centenary of the Bauhaus.
The Bauhaus in Bristol traces the story of the remarkable friendship between Bristol furniture manufacturer Crofton Gane and leading Bauhaus furniture designer and architect Marcel Breuer. Begun in the 1930s and lasting their whole lives, it put Bristol firmly on the Modernist map. Furniture designed by Breuer and made in Bristol for Crofton Gane will be on display in the ground floor gallery alongside archive material and a model of the Breuer designed Gane Pavilion.
The KSC Gallery is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11am – 4pm during the exhibition.
FREE ADMISSION
Bauhaus in Bristol Events
Alongside the exhibition we presented a number of exciting events which delved further into this fascinating story. Priority booking for Friends of the KSC.
11 Jan 2020. Printing the Bauhaus Way. A workshop for 16+ years, led by Oliver Kent and Oli Timmins in conjunction with Bristol School of Art. Venue: The Print Studios at the Bristol School of Art. 9.30 – 12.30 / 13.30 – 16.30 Tickets: £20.
27 Nov. A Life in Design: Peter Metcalfe in conversation with Cleo Witt. Bristol Guild Cafe 7.00 – 8.30 Tickets: £10/ £5 students to include a glass of wine or soft drink.
16 Nov. Breuer in Bristol Symposium with guest speakers including: Leyla Daybelge & Magnus Englund, Max Gane, Oliver Kent, Phil O’Shaughnessy, Alan Powers, Christopher Wilk and Chris Yeo, chaired by Cleo Witt. Arnolfini, Bristol. 9.30 – 17.00 Tickets: £30/ (students £15) including light lunch.
30 Oct. An Evening with Crofton Gane featuring Max Gane, Crofton’s great-grandson and friends. The Folk House, Park St, Bristol. 7.30 – 9.00 Tickets: £10 (students £5)
Free drop-in tours of the exhibition at the Stradling Gallery: 14 Oct 12.30 – 1.30 / 11 Dec 12.30 – 1.30 / 15 Jan 12.30 – 1.30
We are grateful to the Arts Council England and the Gane Trust for supporting the exhibition and related events.
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Ken Stradling’s Eye
Modern Design in Britain
An exhibition featuring studio ceramics, studio glass, domestic ware, sculpture, chairs, prints, tiles………..
13 July – 24 August 2019
Ken’s collection demonstrates a lifelong fascination with the making of domestic objects in his own time, and a commitment to sharing it with others. This exhibition encapsulates the breadth of the collection with a liveliness and lightness of touch.
The KSC Gallery is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11am – 4pm during the exhibition.
FREE ADMISSION
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Kenn Diagram Exhibition
An exhibition of ceramics from Cardiff School of Art and Design at the Ken Stradling Collection.
Private View Tuesday 11 June from 5.00 – 7.00
Exhibition dates: Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 June 2019, 11.00 – 4.00
A reimagining of the Ken Stradling Collection by CSAD ceramic students, examining the intersections of the objects and their narratives.
We are delighted to be presenting our third exhibition by ceramics students from CSAD who have made work inspired by objects from the KSC – it is always an exciting and vibrant occasion.
Please make the date in your diary – it is a very short run exhibition.
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