American ceramist Frances Palmer explores the pedestal form in her work for a new display at the museum (open 8 October – 20 December), including footed vases, tulipieres and bowls, vessels designed for displaying flowers in balanced and beautiful arrangements.

In this talk, Frances will share the historical pedestals that she has studied and how she references them in her work and flowers.

A celebrated author, ceramist, gardener and photographer, Frances Palmer trained as an art historian at Columbia University and for the past 38 years, has focused on the process of changing ideas into form in her functional work – handmade ceramics. Her work is represented in leading private craft and contemporary art collections around the world and has been exhibited internationally.

Her first book, Life in the Studio: Inspiration and Lessons on Creativity was published by Artisan in 2020. Her second book, dedicated to the subject of flowers in her work, will be published in 2025.