A major new commission at The Bowes Museum will see acclaimed artist Pippa Hale reimagine the museum’s renowned ceramic collection into a vibrant and interactive experience for all ages in the exhibition, Pippa Hale: Pet Project. Turning fragile into shatterproof, this playful exhibition, invites visitors to engage with ceramics boldly and hands-on, suggesting ceramics are and can be fun. These 2.5m high, soft sculptural forms (‘squishees’) encourage visitors to engage physically, they can hug, climb and create imaginary play scenes, nurturing personal connections with these larger-than-life shapes. The exhibition also explores the rich history of ceramics, including the political, economic and social conditions that influenced their creation. Over 50 ceramic pet figurines from the museum’s own collection are presented alongside treasured pet-related ceramics submitted by the members of the public. Visitors are then offered a creative experience, inviting people to take part in painting and decorating bisque pet figurines.