The English Ceramic Circle (ECC), the oldest and largest society dedicated to the study of British ceramics and enamels, has announced an open call for up to three new contemporary works of art. The commissions form a central part of the organization’s upcoming centenary celebrations, which will culminate in a major showcase at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in South Kensington.
Marking 100 years of the society, the special exhibition will open in October 2027 and run through September 2028 in the Ceramics Galleries at V&A South Kensington. The display will celebrate British ceramics spanning from the year 1600 to the present day, honoring the rich artistic and technological contributions made by potters working across Britain over the centuries. By placing contemporary creations directly alongside historic pieces from the V&A’s extensive holdings, the exhibition seeks to demonstrate how long-standing ceramic traditions can be reimagined, challenged, and reinterpreted in innovative, thought-provoking ways.
To foster this dynamic dialogue between the past and the present, the ECC is inviting proposals from UK-based ceramic artists for up to three newly commissioned works. The initiative aims to spotlight modern creative talent while building a bridge between historical production and contemporary studio practice. Organizers are particularly keen to encourage submissions from early- and mid-career practitioners, specifically those with between three and 15 years of professional experience working with clay.
Artist Fee and Brief
Selected artists will receive a fee of £3,000 to realize their proposed projects. According to the exhibition brief, successful applicants must propose a work that utilizes clay as its primary medium and draws direct inspiration from, or critically interrogates, an aspect of British ceramic production predating 1900.
Because the finished pieces will be exhibited within Room 146 at V&A South Kensington, all proposals must carefully consider the physical constraints and display environment of the gallery space. Works may be designed for wall mounting or placement inside a display case, though the venue can only accommodate moderately sized objects. Detailed room dimensions, case specifications, and elevations are available to interested applicants upon request.
While artists are encouraged to explore historic British ceramics broadly defined, submissions are expected to establish a meaningful connection with the V&A’s world-renowned collections of historic British pottery and porcelain. This interaction between the museum’s historical holdings and fresh contemporary perspectives is intended to anchor the centenary display in a rich, multi-layered narrative about the evolution of British craft.
The Selection Process
The selection of the successful proposals will be carried out by a dedicated panel of experts. Artists selected for the commissions will be notified in December 2026. Following notification, the chosen practitioners will receive ongoing support and mentorship from V&A curatorial staff as they conduct further research and refine their projects.
The timeline for production requires that finished works be delivered to V&A South Kensington in September 2027. However, practical logistical details regarding the physical installation of the pieces—including precise dimensions, weight, and specific mounting methods—must be finalized and submitted by June 2027.
Upon completion of the exhibition run, the newly commissioned works will officially belong to the English Ceramic Circle, which will loan them to the V&A for the duration of the display from October 2027 to September 2028. Following the conclusion of the V&A exhibition, the ECC intends to donate the works to a public museum within the United Kingdom, ensuring that the legacy of the centenary project continues to strengthen ties between historic and contemporary ceramics in public collections nationwide.
In addition to the financial support and exhibition opportunity, successful artists will be granted full membership to the English Ceramic Circle for the duration of their involvement with the project. In return, commissioned artists will be expected to actively participate in public programming related to the centenary display. This engagement may take the form of public talks, hands-on workshops, or gallery tours, alongside providing behind-the-scenes content to support marketing and social media campaigns throughout the making process.
How to Apply and Important Deadlines
Artists interested in applying for the commission must submit their proposals by the final application deadline of November 15, 2026. All application materials, proposals, and inquiries should be directed via email to the ECC centenary committee at [email protected].
Founded in 1927, the English Ceramic Circle has spent nearly a century advancing the study, appreciation, and documentation of ceramics and enamels manufactured, decorated, and used across the British Isles. Welcoming members of all expertise levels, the society’s global community comprises collectors, museum curators, archaeologists, working potters, auctioneers, antique dealers, and social historians. Through regular meetings, lectures, and academic publications, the registered charity continues to foster a deep and enduring interest in the history of British ceramic art.
The V&A South Kensington remains one of the world’s leading destinations for art, design, and performance. Spanning five millennia of human creativity across countless disciplines—from fashion and furniture to sculpture, architecture, and its world-class ceramics holdings—the museum provides a historic backdrop for national treasures, cutting-edge exhibitions, and pioneering educational and research programs.