A new thought-provoking exhibition by internationally acclaimed artist Jacqueline Bishop opens on 23rd August 2024 at the V&A Wedgwood Collection in Stoke-on-Trent. Titled The Keeper of All The Secrets, this ceramic artwork delves into the overlooked figure of the ‘Market Woman’ in Caribbean society, a central yet historically marginalised character since the time of slavery.
The exhibition forms part of Culture&’s national programme Time, Space and Empire, which seeks to explore Britain’s colonial history through the lens of ceramics. Bishop’s work, a collaboration with local ceramist Emma Price, features an intricate collection of bone china plates, tableware, and textiles adorned with rich imagery, reflecting the complex legacy of slavery and the resilience of the Market Woman.
The launch is poignantly timed to coincide with UNESCO’s International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, underlining the exhibition’s commitment to raising awareness about Staffordshire’s colonial connections.
Dr Errol Francis, Artistic Director and CEO of Culture&, emphasised the importance of using ceramics to tell this “neglected story” in the heart of British pottery.
“Culture& is elated to launch its national programme Time, Space and Empire with Jacqueline Bishop at V&A Wedgwood Collection to tell a neglected story using ceramics in the centre of British pottery. It feels important to debut this artistic intervention on UNESCO’s International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition.”
The exhibition is accompanied by a vibrant series of free public events, including talks, workshops, and poetry readings, designed to engage the local community in discussions about the region’s historical ties to slavery and abolition. Highlights include a Museum Late event on 23rd August featuring a Long Table discussion with Bishop, and a young people’s craft workshop on 24th August at the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery.
Gabriella Gay said: “I’m excited to be working on such an important programme and event for Staffordshire. Traditionally, conversations about slavery and abolition happen in port cities like Bristol and Liverpool. It is an exciting step for an inland area like Staffordshire to explore its colonial histories and legacies of abolition and enslavement through this artwork. This programme’s reach and legacy are national, international, and local-regional.”
The Keeper of All The Secrets will be on display until 3rd November 2024, offering visitors a unique opportunity to reflect on the intertwining histories of ceramics, colonialism, and the enduring impact of the past on the present.
See the full programme here: https://www.cultureand.org/news/jacqueline-bishop-keeper-of-all-the-secrets-exhibition-events/