August brings us VASE: Function Reviewed a stunning exhibition of works by Irish and international ceramists exploring themes of function and form, vase and vessel. A full programme of events including talks, installations and workshops kick off for the Kilkenny Arts Festival and continue through the autumn.

Sat 6 August, 3pm
CURATOR’S TALK: Brian Kennedy with guests
Brian Kennedy introduces the thinking behind the VASE: Function Reviewed exhibition, highlighting some of the key works and the narrative behind them. He is joined in conversation by a number of exhibiting ceramic artists. The talk is followed by the exhibition launch at 4pm.

Thurs 25 August, 6.30pm
MEET THE MAKER: Traditional Skills Contemporary Approach with Mike Byrne
Join ceramicist Mike Byrne as he talks about his experience working with clay; beginning his career in Kilkenny Design Workshops, and his use of traditional ceramic skills combined with a contemporary design approach. This event is programmed as part of Heritage Week.

Thurs 1 September, 6.30pm
MEET THE MAKER: Culture, Identity & Myth in Clay with Helen Doherty
Helen Doherty gives a special gallery talk to coincide with the Ceramics Ireland International Festival in Thomastown. Helen is of Dutch and Irish origin and grew up in South Africa and England; providing her with a rich reservoir of images and memories to draw on. Helen speaks about her interests in the relationship between identity and place; myth making and the role culture plays in moulding who we become. This event as part of the Ceramics Ireland International Festival.

Fri 16 September, 6pm
IN CONVERSATION: Flowers and Form with Brian Kennedy and Lamber de Bie
Curator Brian Kennedy, in conversation with master florist Lamber de Bie, discusses the influence of vase forms in designing sculptural arrangements. Lamber has been invited to design a special floral installation as part of the exhibition from 15 - 27 September. Lamber de Bie will respond to a number of the vases, allowing their forms to influence the choice of flowers utilised in creating sculptural floral arrangements in dialogue with the exhibition. This floral installation is kindly supported by Fáilte Ireland, Kilkenny County Council and IPB Insurance.

Thurs 27 October, 6.30pm
MEET THE MAKER: The Craft of Eating with Akiko Hirai
As a special event for Savour Kilkenny we invite ceramic maker Akiko Hirai to speak about her carefully crafted ware; teabowls, teapots, sake bottles and platters. Akiko creates series’ of beautiful practical ceramic ware in organic hues, seeking to reflect beauty that is found in the natural world. Her work is influenced by ceramic traditions of Japan and Britain; and seems to nod to the sense of ceremony around sharing food held in both cultures.