Simon Carroll: Hereford Visionary’s Pottery Returns Home

In a remarkable celebration of local artistic heritage, we proudly present an exhibition featuring the works of Simon Carroll, one of Herefordshire’s most distinguished artists.

The exhibition, with pieces on loan from the V&A Museum London, not only showcases Carroll’s revolutionary approach to pottery but also demonstrates how his influence continues to inspire new generations of artists in his hometown.

Born and raised in Hereford, Simon Carroll’s journey from local artist to internationally acclaimed potter is a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft. Despite achieving recognition at prestigious institutions like the Tate and Victoria & Albert Museum, Carroll remained deeply connected to his Herefordshire roots. His commitment to nurturing local talent was evident in his teaching roles at both Hereford College of Arts (HCA) and The Royal National College for the Blind, where he shared his expertise and passion with aspiring artists.

Carroll’s work stands out for its bold, experimental nature. His pieces challenge traditional ceramic conventions, embracing a raw and innovative approach that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Each piece tells a story of artistic exploration and fearless creativity, characteristics that have cemented his legacy in the contemporary pottery landscape.

This exhibition takes on special significance through its collaborative nature. Through partnership with the Victoria & Albert Museum, The Courtyard has secured the loan of several significant pieces from Carroll’s body of work, allowing local residents to experience these masterpieces in the very community that shaped their creator. The involvement of the V&A not only underscores Carroll’s international standing but also brings a piece of national cultural heritage back to its origins.

Adding a contemporary dimension to the exhibition, current students from Hereford College of Arts are presenting works inspired by Carroll’s innovative techniques and artistic philosophy. This student showcase demonstrates the impact of Carroll’s legacy on emerging artists and highlights the continuing vitality of Herefordshire’s artistic community. Additionally, artists from Cup Ceramics are contributing their own pieces, creating a dialogue between Carroll’s historical works and contemporary ceramic practice.

The Courtyard Hereford invites visitors to experience this unique convergence of past and present, where Simon Carroll’s work stands alongside the creations of those he continues to inspire. This exhibition represents more than just a display of ceramic art; it’s a homecoming celebration for one of Herefordshire’s most talented sons and a testament to the enduring power of artistic inspiration in our community.

Photography by Gabriella Karney