Ceramicists prepare to set the art world on fire

Historic Rufford Abbey Country Park is preparing to host one of the UK’s premier ceramic events.

The Earth and Fire International Ceramic Fair takes place from Friday, June 21 to Sunday, June 23 from 10am to 5pm, at the park, near Ollerton.

Potters and artists from across Europe sell everything from garden planters and sculptures to teapots and egg cups at the event, organised by Nottinghamshire County Council’s arts development team.

John Knight, the council’s culture committee chairman, said: “Rufford Abbey is a stunning setting for this event each year which has become one of the top international ceramic fairs in the annual calendar.”

Peter Beard, from Leamington Spa, has taken part in Earth and Fire since it began in 1994. He is usually based at the outside event, but this time is taking over the gallery for a major one man show until July 21.

His work is inspired from nature and landscapes. He is also fascinated by ancient metal work from the Bronze and Iron Ages.

Suet Yi Yip, who has studios in Derby Road, Bramcote, is planning to unveil a new collection, The Forgotten And The Unforgotten.

She moved to Nottingham from Hong Kong in 2008, and secured first class honours in decorative arts at Nottingham Trent University in 2011.

Other artists taking part include Robin Welch, Jim Malone, Lisa Hammond, David and Margaret Frith, Ashraf and Sue Hannah and Ian Gregory. They will be joined by international exhibitors from South Africa, Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands and France.