Dated: 02/11/2009

Bird in the Hand

Details of our exciting new exhibition have been unveiled.

The display, called Bird in the Hand, opens on 21 November in the Little Gallery and closes on 28 March 2010.

The exhibition takes its inspiration from a poignant installation by ceramicist Eve Bennett.

It brings together specimens of common and exotic birds, with a range of avian themed objects and works of art.

Eve explained that the work is a personal story through her own life both commemorates and celebrates the lives of people she has known and loved, living and deceased.

The exhibition includes funny and touching family stories including a key story about exotic birds.

Helen Walsh, Assistant Curator of Decorative Arts, said: “The personal story Eve has used for her work is very touching and her pots are beautiful. She has worked with us to select a range of objects from our collections to help illustrate the mysterious relationship we have with our feathered friends.”

Eve Bennett said: “I produce ceramics that have personal meaning but are expressive enough to convey stories to the viewer. I use a narrative, running through my work, which creates an almost whimsical and touching dialogue. In completing my work, I take a personal journey through my own memories and family stories. My work is designed to commemorate the dead and celebrate the living, through a ceramic medium.”