A ceramics installation created by comedian Johnny Vegas is set to be unveiled in Stoke-on-Trent next week. 

Vegas, who trained in ceramics at the University of Middlesex before becoming a comedian, has worked alongside sculptor Emma Rogers on the installation. 

Titled "Just Be There", the work is described as "an avenue of hugs captured in clay" and is due to go on show at this year's British Ceramics Biennial, opening at Spode Works on 9 September. 

The installation is said to be presented as an invitation to those who "don't get art" alongside those who are unhappy or bitter. 

Vegas said: "The wall is an invitation to those who don't get art, to those who are unhappy, to those who feel bitterness. It's an invitation to tell it to the wall – to let it out on the wall and do something a bit destructive. 

"Once they've done that, they can walk back through the avenue without resentment for love and contentment."

Johnny Vegas and sculptor Emma Rogers have collaborated on the project. (BCB)

The 'hugged' forms will sit along a wall of unfired clay, giving visitors the chance to "express their feelings" by making markings.

During the pandemic, Vegas says he found solace in creativity, and nearly three decades after he graduated, he returned to the studio. 

Emma Rodgers collaborates with Vegas to help him realise his ambitious creative ideas - drawing upon her years of technical and artistic expertise. Her work includes the Cilla Black statue in Liverpool and the world's largest Liver Bird, standing at 11m high.

Vegas' work in clay draws on his experiences of living with ADHD, and explores concepts of flight, faith, and fear of failure. The 'hugged' forms of clay on display will sit along a wall of unfired clay, giving visitors the chance to "express their feelings" by making markings.

He has described his return to art and clay as, 'an unfinished part of my story'.

Vegas added:  "Let it out, by all means let it out, but never let go of love. 

"Never let go of that hug."

The British Ceramics Biennial 2025 opens on 9 September and on 18 October, Johnny Vegas and Emma Rodgers will be in conversation at a special British Ceramics Biennial event.