Jasmine Simpson: Selected works, 2022-2024
My creative journey begins in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent amidst the echoes of industrial heritage. I am compelled to explore human existence through the lens of the natural world, using animals as my muse and potent metaphors to convey the intricacies of our shared experience.
Through the poised stance of a majestic hound or the tender gaze of a nurturing mother, I aim to evoke a sense of empathy and introspection. The creatures I sculpt embody universal emotions, inviting the viewer to delve into their own reservoirs of feelings and memories. The creatures that inhabit my canvases are not mere subjects, but emissaries of emotion, carriers of universal truths. Through them, I delve into the depths of human nature, unraveling threads of vulnerability, strength, and resilience.
I am drawn to the enduring symbolism of animals: their grace, power, and vulnerability. Ultimately, my work celebrates the enduring power of clay, the timeless wisdom of the animal kingdom, and the unbreakable thread that weaves us all. Using animals as a metaphor, I aim to spark conversations, stir emotions, and ignite a sense of unity in the shared experience of life.
British Ceramics Biennial AWARD 2023
Zoomorphic Headshots, 2022-2024
Cobalt Chronicles, 2024
Cobalt Chronicles is the fourth wow commission as part of Stoke Town High Street Heritage Action Zone programme, funded by Historic England and Stoke On Trent City Council. Artist and ceramist Jasmine Simpson designed and created a ceramic mural artwork linking Church Street to the courtyard entrance at Spode. The artwork brings together elements of traditional ceramic craftsmanship with a contemporary approach and taking the form of a ceramic blue and white tile mural with sculptural elements. The artwork was created in collaboration with a local tile manufacturer and the tiles were hand-painted using cobalt oxide to create an impactful blue and white design linking to the traditional pottery of Stoke, particularly that created by Spode.
The mural weaves together iconic symbols and landmarks from town’s heritage with future facing designs. From the iconic bottle kilns to the flowing waters of the Trent and the intricate detailing of traditional pottery, each tile tells a story, creating a vibrant narrative that celebrates the city’s resilience, creativity, and the enduring legacy of its pottery heritage.
The pillar artworks feature key people who have been part of Stoke’s heritage (Thomas Minton, Ida Copeland, and Josiah Spode) with the triangular three-sided piece including St Werburgh (and her geese!), references to the town’s music scene (in particular rave and northern soul), iconic buildings and architecture from Stoke and some of the biodiversity spotted in the town (particularly in the grounds of the minster where a meadow area is being developed and in the pocket park of Spode Rose Garden).
Captions
- There Are Devils In My House, 2023, Stoneware, earthenware tile, cobalt, glaze, 244x208x5 cm
- Giving Jug, 2023, Stoneware, oxide, glaze, 35x36x26 cm
- MOT Platter, 2023, Stoneware, oxide, glaze, 45x40x10 cm
- Taking Vase, 2023, Stoneware, glaze, 51x24x40 cm
- Billy Bust, 2024, Stoneware, stains, glaze, 22x25x18 cm
- Goat Bust, 2024, Stoneware, stains, gaze, 20x25x18 cm
- Bull Bust, 2024, Stoneware, stains, glaze, 26x18x18 cm
- Bull Charger, 2022, Stoneware, stains, glaze, 50×5 cm
- Hare Bust, 2024, stoneware, Stains, glaze, 35x16x16 cm
- Stirrup Cup, 2022, Stoneware, stains, glaze, 22x23x14 cm
