The Tactile project explored links between ecology and the ceramics heritage of Stoke-on-Trent. It also looked at ideas of reusing waste and the application of ceramic materials in growing processes. Whilst learning new clay skills and processes, participants benefited from mindful exploration of materials.
Tactile Project Space
The Tactile Project Space provided a hands-on clay engagement opportunity within the 8th British Ceramics Biennial, which took place in Stoke-on-Trent in the autumn of 2023.
One of the objectives of the Tactile Project Space was the dissemination of knowledge related to the tile heritage of Stoke-on-Trent. The abundance of clay in the area and technological advancements of the 19th century led to mass manufacture of many architectural ceramics. The most iconic were encaustic tiles, known as ‘Minton tiles’, after their leading producer, Minton, Hollins & Co.
Over 2,000 tiles composed of waste materials and plant seeds were made by biennial visitors, including over 1,000 schoolchildren. Through a partnership with the University of Staffordshire, a site on the campus was chosen as a destination for the tiles. They were installed in spring 2024 to become a wildflower meadow.
Download the Tactile Impact Report for an in-depth look at the preparation, scope and evaluation of the Tactile Project Space.
