Led by British Ceramics Biennial in partnership with the Museum of Ceramics in Bolesławiec, Poland, Ceramic Cities Exchange creates opportunities for young artists to expand their creative practice, broaden their networks and engage in international cultural exchange.
About Ceramic Cities Exchange
Bolesławiec and Stoke-on-Trent are internationally recognised for their ceramic industries. Each is home to generations of skilled artists and craftspeople exhibiting the utmost artistry and skill. Along with their remarkable ceramic heritage, each city has fostered a wide range of contemporary practice. The two partner organisations are champions for the industrial and artistic ceramics practice of their respective cities. They provide a bridge between the historic and contemporary exponents.
In early 2025, young artists from both cities joined the Ceramic Cities Exchange programme, which began with a six-week digital exchange and practical studio sessions. This phase provided the opportunity to consider the strengths, unique characteristics and remarkable landmarks of their city and introduce it to the other group. The digital exchange laid the foundation for an in-person exchange.
In August 2025, the group of young artists from Stoke-on-Trent travelled to Poland. Their itinerary included ceramic factory and museum visits, artist introductions and opportunities to make new work in ceramic studio facilities. This all took place during the Bolesławiec Ceramics Festival when the whole city celebrates its remarkable ceramic traditions. The new work made during the visit will be exhibited in the Museum of Ceramics in Bolesławiec in winter 2025. This short film captures the exchange.
In 2026, we will complete the exchange cycle and welcome the group from Poland to experience the creative riches of Stoke-on-Trent. Work produced during this visit will be exhibited in Stoke-on-Trent.
The artists
Support
Ceramic Cities Exchange is supported by the British Council under the UK/Poland Season 2025 The Alchemy of Culture, the Polish Cultural Institute in London and the Polish Aid Foundation Trust.
Thank you to Copperbeach, Wavemaker and YMCA North Staffordshire.
