Chloe Monks, a dynamic ceramic artist based in Bristol, has made a name for herself with her unique approach to glaze and a strong dedication to education.
Her artistic journey began in a culturally rich environment, traversing the UK, the US, and Europe before she chose to settle in the UK to further her studies.
She obtained her Foundation Diploma in Art and Design from Falmouth University, which paved the way for her Bachelor’s degree in Ceramics at Cardiff School of Art and Design, where she graduated with First-Class honors.
Artistic Development
After completing her degree, Monks sharpened her skills as a glaze technician and designer at a raw materials company in Stoke-on-Trent.
There, she collaborated with notable brands like Johnsons Tiles and British Ceramic Tile, gaining invaluable hands-on experience that deepened her craft.
Not one to stay complacent, Monks embarked on a self-funded, transformative journey to India shortly after her stint in Stoke.
Over four months, she immersed herself in the rich ceramic traditions of the region, partnering with extraordinary artists such as Vineet Kacker in New Delhi and working alongside other talents in Mumbai’s Kalaghoda district.
This enlightening experience was instrumental in refining her artistic focus and led her to successfully apply for a Master’s program in Ceramics & Glass at the Royal College of Art.
Exhibitions and Recognition
At RCA, Monks explored the alchemical qualities of glaze, transforming it from a decorative element into a key sculptural material.
Even as the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, she persevered and graduated with distinction, showcasing her unwavering commitment to experimenting with materials and engaging in phenomenological practice.
Her innovative approach has been widely recognized through her participation in esteemed residencies, including those at Ryall Hill in Worcestershire, the Sanbao Ceramic Art Institute in Jingdezhen, and North London Collegiate.
Monks’s dedication to her craft has earned her numerous scholarships, including the Grocers Bursary, the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust, and support from the Craft Potters Charitable Trust.
In 2020, she was celebrated as the Future Light of Ceramics and became a member of the Royal Society of Sculptors in 2023.
Commitment to Education
Beyond her studio work, Monks is passionate about sharing her knowledge.
She has taught ceramics and glazing techniques at various institutions and engaged audiences through artist talks at places like Sidcot School, North London Collegiate, and Camden Arts Centre.
Currently, she’s pursuing a PGCert in Creative Education and has completed her teaching placement in the Ceramics Department at Cardiff Metropolitan University.
Monks contributes to conferences and journals, discussing innovative educational approaches and the integration of both accredited and non-accredited learning in the craft world.
Despite hurdles such as program closures, her commitment to enhancing educational prospects in ceramics and glass remains steadfast.
Chloe Monks’ artistic creations resonate on an international scale, with exhibitions highlighting her work across the globe.
Notable upcoming showcases include Collect at Somerset House (UK, 2024) and Disruption / Direction at Centre Space Gallery (UK, 2023).
Her previous exhibitions include Artefact at Chelsea Design Centre (UK, 2022), Fresh at the British Ceramics Biennale (UK, 2021), 40 CICA (Spain, 2020), and Across Borders (China, 2019).
Through each project, Monks continues to inspire those around her, pushing the limits of ceramics while championing education and collaboration in the art community.
Source: Ceramicsnow