Topographies of Obsolescence and Renewal: Artistic Remediations of Deindustrialisation in the UK’s Capital of Ceramics

Brownsword was invited to present at the Across Disciplines Seminar Series at NTU. The talk disseminated the research underpinning his practice, with particular focus on his project FACTORY, shown as part of Gyeonggi International Ceramic Biennale (GICB) 2017, and its tour to the UK in Place and Practices British Ceramics Biennial 2017.

Abstract
Artist Neil Brownsword examines the ceramic manufacturing histories and legacy of deindustrialisation in his native Stoke-on-Trent - a world renowned ceramic capital that has undergone significant change in recent decades. Using a research process which involves film, installation and performance, Brownsword articulates a critique of globalization and its socio-economic impact on people, place and traditional industry. He highlights in particular complex knowledge systems within ceramic manufacture, and their displacement through advanced technology and policies of outsourcing. Through this presentation, Brownsword reveals often overlooked forms of human intelligence within a rapidly disappearing culture of labour, and raises questions surrounding the relevance and sustainability industrial craft skills that remain an important aspect of Britain’s intangible cultural heritage.