More than 100 dog figures have been placed around Hanley to celebrate Stoke’s disabled pottery workers. Two 8-foot tall models, the largest in the collection, can be found outside Hanley Town Hall.
The figures have been made in the style of the pottery spaniel dogs that were mass-produced in the Potteries during the 1800s. Historically, this style of figurine was made by disabled workers and children.
The large dog figurines that have recently been positioned around Stoke-on-Trent were created by 104 Projects, a local heritage and arts production company.
More than 100 disabled people helped to build these new pottery dogs. Each artist added their own design meaning that no two dogs are the same.
Justin Edgar from 104 Projects stated: “This is a fun way for audiences to discover and understand the heritage of Stoke-on-Trent’s disabled workers and to celebrate disability and disabled artists.”
Chloe Breeze, a local artist, designed a trail map that Hanley visitors can use to visit all of the dog figures.
It is hoped that these ceramic dogs will become permanent landmarks.
Experienced writer and journalist James McKean leads the daily editorial output at StaffsLive. To contact him, email news@staffslive.co.uk
