WORK / CERAMICS / MONKS & NUNS

Monks & Nuns

Jan Fairey & Sonia Hibbs · Ceramics

Monks & Nuns explores the sculptural tension between architectural repetition and organic stoneware forms. Hand-built using Catalan red clay and finished with a raw tactile glaze, this collection draws inspiration from the rhythmic roof tile geometry found throughout rural Catalonia. Each piece balances strict spatial proportion with subtle hand-formed variations in texture and shadow.

SPECIFICATIONS
CONTEXT & METHOD

DETAILS

ABOUT THE SERIES

Artist: Jan Fairey & Sonia Hibbs Material: Stoneware & Catalan Red Clay Technique: Hand-built, Slip Glazed Year: 2024 Dimensions: Variable (35cm – 85cm height) Edition: Unique Works

The Monks & Nuns series reflects over two decades of collaborative practice between Sonia Hibbs and Jan Fairey. Originating from architectural observations across Mediterranean tile traditions, the forms translate historic interlocking building motifs into freestanding sculptural presence. Constructed using traditional hand-building methods in their Catalonia studio, each vessel captures the tactile warmth of local clay.

Tall terracotta stoneware ceramic vessel with vertical carved line motif
Tall terracotta stoneware ceramic vessel with vertical carved line motif
Medium height ceramic vessel with wide curved rim and natural earth slip
Medium height ceramic vessel with wide curved rim and natural earth slip
Compact architectural ceramic form with geometric structural accents
Compact architectural ceramic form with geometric structural accents
SERIES PIECES

Individual Works

Monk No. 01

Nun No. 02

Monk No. 03

85 × 24 cm. High-fired stoneware with raw tactile exterior and interior protective glaze.

62 × 28 cm. Catalan red clay with hand-brushed off-white slip and charcoal specks.

44 × 20 cm. Stoneware ceramic piece featuring exposed terracotta body and matte finish.

Inquire About This Series

For information about available pieces from this series, please get in touch.