Virginia Graham @ New Ashgate Gallery, Farnham

Virginia Graham’s ceramics are an eclectic amalgamation of nostalgic form and imagery, transforming the ordinary past by drawing on a wide range of domestic traditions.

Her handmade pieces range from teapots and cups to jewellery, as well as one-off larger pieces that incorporate precious stones, metal and found objects. Virginia uses a combination of slip casting and hand building techniques to create pieces in her signature style. She makes reference to historical wares including the familiar blue and white stripes of Cornish Ware as well as industrial plumbing and Victorian fabrics. The resulting pieces are eclectic and precious with a playful humour yet at the same time are ordinary and familiar reminding us of that bygone era when afternoon tea was a serious business.