Earlier this year we told you about our new commission 'All Fired Up,' which was awarded to our Starter Studio ceramicists Meghan Downs and Hannah Staniforth.

We are delighted with the results which are now on display in the foyer of Museums Sheffield until 2nd October. This brand-new commission - a partnership between Yorkshire Artspace, South Yorkshire Housing Association (SYHA) & Museums Sheffield with materials sponsorship via Potclays Limited - saw SYHA customers engaged in the design and making process.

Each artist made two pieces, one to enter the Museums Sheffield ceramic collection and one given to the SYHA setting to be appreciated by residents everyday.

Hear more from both artists at the lunchtime MAKERS TALK at Millennium Galleries, Thursday 7th September, 1pm. FREE and no need to book, but do check the Museums Sheffield website closer to the time for more details.

Hannah worked on her piece alongside residents from White Willows assisted living centre, which provides self contained accommodation enabling older people in Sheffield to live independently. Hannah says of the work:

‘This piece is directly inspired by the cherished memories of members of the community at White Willows, shared with me during visits and conversations. I set about making a pair of wheel thrown commemorative platters that celebrate and give permanence to the joys and sadnesses of a life gone by.’

Meghan worked at Project 911, which is a supported living environment for people with complex mental health needs who may be dealing with addiction adn substance dependence. Meghan worked with the residents, encouraging them to work in clay and contribute to the ideas for the final piece.

‘Working with an eclectic group of people at 911, I ran workshops to find out what they value in life, introducing drawing and clay activities focusing on positive memories. Throughout these sessions, the most prominent themes were family and nature, depicted in various ways. The ceramic pieces that were made during the workshops have been included in the sister piece for this commission, a wall piece that will reside at 911 project for all to enjoy.

The sculptural arrangement shows contrasting moods. From one side of the piece there are colourful panels that have been created from sketches produced during the workshops. The drawing featured on the other side is my own of the 911 building and shows the place they currently are now.

The shapes of the piece represent the fact that there is a broken line between their current situation and their aspirations.’

Ceramics enthusiast? More dates for your diary this summer:

• Sheffield Ceramics Festival 23 September, Meersbrook Park, Sheffield.
  • Yorkshire Artspace Starter Studio holders including Hanah and Meghan Downs will be demonstrating their ceramic techniques
• British Ceramics Biennial opens 23 Sep to 5 Nov, Stoke on Trent.