The Stradling Collection runs a range of exhibitions from the Collection celebrating individual artistry, craftsmanship and product design. We also exhibit work done by local schools, colleges and universities in response to the Collection as part of our learning programme.
We also run Curator’s Tours and Talks for a much closer look at the Collection.
18 January – 28 June 2025
Conscious Clay is six-month rolling exhibition examining the work of ceramicist and painter Sam Haile, as well as a collection of reflections on his work by contemporary ceramist Emily Taylor. The exhibition considers a range of themes from mythology, peace, the human body and those on the fringes of society.
Integrated throughout will be a programme of Learning and Engagement activities, that include student reflections on Sam Haile, workshops, tours and events.
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Curator’s tours
Beautiful objects, fascinating stories
Book here for the opportunity to see the whole Collection.
One of the features of the Stradling Collection is the stories about the objects, the makers, the building and Bristol’s place in craft and design history – thanks to the work of Ken Stradling – vividly brought to life by our curator, Tanya Martin. An architect and ceramicist herself, Tanya’s fascinating tours of the Collection are a real journey through the alchemy and magic of craft and design.
Tickets £15 per person

Previous exhibitions
We’ve run a range of exhibitions including:
- A Lifelong Passion for Design – Ken Stradling at 100
- Sitting Pretty – an exhibition of chairs
- Shipshape – a celebration of all things nautical
- Toys and Tales – toys and automata
- Design Icons – design companies in Bristol
And from our learning programme: