Explore the thriving terracotta industry in Wrexham, affectionately dubbed ‘Terracottapolis’.
From the mid-19th-century to the early 2000s, the Welsh market town of Wrexham was well-known for its manufacture and international distribution of bricks, tiles and terracotta products, inspiring its nickname, Terracottapolis. Their distinctive red bricks and lovely decorative tiles can be seen in some of the grandest buildings across Britain.
The exhibition features exciting work in terracotta from artists such as Paul Eastwood, Lesley James, Renee So and Liam Stokes-Massey, plus works from the museum’s own collection and contemporary creations by local makers. The exhibition will run alongside Wal Pawb, a biennial commission of six artworks by contemporary artist Lydia Meehan to be displayed across two Tri-Vision billboards within Tŷ Pawb – Wrexham’s prolific terracotta industry is the inspiration behind the commission.
A highlight on display is a 6ft model of a proposed 120ft tall sculpture by Antony Gormley, The Brick Man. The full sculpture never became a reality after running into objections from city planners in Leeds where it was intended to be built. Archive material from the planning stages, including letters and press cuttings exploring the public reaction will also be on display.
This exhibition is supported by the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund.
