Louisa Taylor

Louisa Taylor is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Art and Media at the University of Brighton, where she teaches on the BA (Hons) 3D Design and Craft course. She is an accomplished ceramicist and practice-based researcher with a focus on historical dining culture, materiality, and interdisciplinary craft. Her work bridges academic research, creative practice, and public engagement.

Education:

• Master of Arts in Ceramics and Glass, Royal College of Art (2004–2006)
• BA (Hons) in 3D Design: Ceramics, Bath Spa University (2000–2003)

Her research centers on 18th-century dining vessels, exploring how functional objects evolved with changing food trends and social rituals. She investigates the performance of multi-course dining, the role of women in high society, and the material dialogue between ceramic and metal tureens. Her creative projects such as Papillion and the Sophie Tea Set reflect on historical forms while encouraging contemporary social interaction through use. She is deeply engaged in material experimentation, applying metalworking techniques like raising and hammering to clay, and incorporating silver elements into ceramic forms.

Her recent publications include influential books like The Ceramics Bible (2022, 2nd ed.) and Ceramics Masterclass (2020), with a forthcoming title on glaze practice. Her research outputs span books, exhibitions, performances, and collaborative art projects, including a 2021 quilt panel addressing gendered inequalities in academia during the pandemic.

Scientific Awards:

• Batch Production Award, British Ceramics Biennial (2009)
• Evening Standard Homes & Property Best Domestic Product 2009
• UK Trade & Investment Silver Award for Innovation, Creativity and Potential to Export
• Excellence in Facilitating and Empowering Learning Award, University of Brighton (2019)

She actively mentors students through her teaching, though specific advisees are not listed. She has led outreach initiatives, participated in international forums such as the China-UK Youth Art and Science Education Forum (2020), and delivered invited talks and workshops. Her consultancy work and professional memberships in the Crafts Potters Association and Contemporary Applied Arts highlight her leadership in the craft community.

Louisa Taylor maintains a vibrant studio practice in Brighton, with works held in public collections including Touchstones Museum, CoCA York, and Bristol Art Gallery. She continues to contribute to both academic and creative spheres through publications, residencies, and interdisciplinary collaborations.