Join us for a casual Wednedsay Talk with Stephen Bird.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Stephen Bird is an artist who pushes the boundaries between painting and ceramics, blending abstraction with figuration in unexpected ways. His work is a deep dive into personal stories, folklore, and the histories that often get overlooked. His characters and narratives start as intuitive drawings before coming to life in ceramics, paintings, and sculptures.

Originally from the UK (born in 1964), Stephen has called Australia home since 1999. He’s based in Sydney, where he teaches at the National Art School, but in recent years, he’s also spent a lot of time in Byron Shire, setting up a studio and garden. His formal training began with a BFA (Hons) from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Dundee, Scotland, majoring in painting. A big early milestone was receiving the Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Award, which took him to the Cyprus College of Art for postgraduate studies.

Stephen’s work has been exhibited widely, from Australia to South Korea, Norway, and New York. His pieces are held in major public collections, including the National Museum of Scotland, The National Gallery of Australia, and the National Museums of Northern Ireland. Over the years, he’s received various awards and grants, including support from the Australia Council and the Scottish Arts Council. Some career highlights include winning the Gold Coast International Ceramic Award (2016) and the Deakin University Contemporary Small Sculpture Award (2011).

When he’s not making art or teaching, you’ll find him working in his garden, always exploring new ideas and ways to bring his unique visual storytelling to life.

ABOUT US

JamFactory is a unique not-for-profit organisation that champions the social, cultural, and economic value of craft and design in daily life. Through our programs we inspire audiences, build careers, and extend contemporary craft and design into new markets.

*Please be advised, photography, filming or recording of the Wednesday Talks Series is not permitted*