‘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 and exploring some of the themes in the Just Be There artwork presented at this year’s Biennial. The event includes an opportunity to take part in an activity capturing the form of hand gestures in clay.

About the artists

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, and nearly three decades after he graduated, he returned to the studio following a chance encounter with sculptor Emma Rodgers. Johnny Vegas’ 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 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 art works include an iconic Liverpool statue of Cilla Black, and the world’s largest Liver Bird, standing at 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.