BCB 2025 Artist Talks: Johnny Vegas and Emma Rodgers

‘Let it out, by all means let it out, but never let go of love. Never let go of that hug.’

Join Johnny Vegas and Emma Rodgers in conversation covering the breadth of their long-term collaboration. They will also explore some of the themes in the artwork, Just Be There, presented at the 2025 Biennial.

Just Be There

A new body of work addressing the beauty and transience of physical contact and interaction. Created in collaboration with local people, the installation captures fleeting moments – fixing human hugs into permanent form.

About the artists

Johnny Vegas

Although best known for his work as a comedian, Johnny Vegas originally trained in art and ceramics at the University of Middlesex. During the pandemic, Johnny found solace in creativity. Nearly three decades after he graduated, he returned to the studio following a chance encounter with sculptor Emma Rodgers. Johnny’s work in clay draws on his experiences of living with ADHD and explores concepts of flight, faith, and fear of failure. He has described his return to art and clay as ‘an unfinished part of my story’.

Emma Rodgers

Emma collaborates with Johnny to help him realise his ambitious creative ideas, drawing upon her years of technical and artistic expertise. Her work is held in major public and private collections internationally, and nature is her constant source of inspiration. Public artworks include an iconic Liverpool statue of Cilla Black and the world’s largest Liver Bird, standing 11m high and comprising oversized Meccano pieces. Emma’s practice pushes the boundaries of materials, be they clay, bronze or steel. She is passionate about art, education and wellbeing.

Support

Thank you to Copperbeach for their support with filming and editing these artist talks.