Author Archives: cbb1@staff.staffs.ac.uk

C3 Research Overview Sessions

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  • When: Several sessions, Spring 2025
  • Where: Hybrid
  • Registration: Through MS Outlook and C3 MS Teams Channel “C3 Ideas Space”
  • For Who: C3 Members Only

We welcome you to a Research Overview session which will take place on Teams and in two different slots to hopefully allow all staff who want to attend to do so. Ian Brown will lead on these sessions and they will take place on Tuesday 18th at 1:15 and be repeated on Wednesday 19th at 12.

The session is intended for those who are currently research active, those that are interested in becoming research active, or just curious about research, and want to know more. It is aimed at staff who would potentially be submitted to either Unit of Assessment 32 (Art & Design: History, Practice and Theory) and 34 (Communication, Cultural and Media Studies, Library and Information Management) and so covers a diverse range of research from different disciplines and departments (from Philosophy to Games, for example). This overview will discuss the variety of forms that research can take, the roles of research centres (and how to get involved), institutional support, funding and REF. Further, more specific, sessions will take place at a later date.

Contact Ian Brown for further dates.

C3 Staff involved in securing Stoke-on-Trent’s title for World Craft City

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Stoke-on-Trent was awarded World Craft City status in summer 2024. The award recognises the city’s rich heritage, global reputation, and innovative spirit within the ceramics industry.

Several C3 Centre members conrtibuted to the successful bid and visit of the World Craft City Judges visiting the city in Spring 2024. Professors Anna Francis, Neil Brownsword and Carola Boehm supported Stoke Creates’ successful bid, led by Stoke Creates Trustee Paul Williams. 

The designation reflects not only the city’s commitment to preserving its unique craft but also highlights its dedication to embracing and developing modern techniques with the ceramics industry.

The World Craft City jurors acknowledged that Stoke-on-Trent has a dynamic craft ecosystem where historical practices coexist with new technologies, innovation and research, supported by institutions like the University of Staffordshire and the British Ceramics Biennial. This ecosystem supports education, innovation, and community engagement, ensuring skills sharing across generations​.

Earning this status is a landmark achievement for our city, bolstering its cultural identity and economic growth. It places the city on the global stage, drawing international attention and tourism, which could lead to increased economic opportunities. The recognition also underscores the city’s role in leading the ceramics sector, enhancing its identity as a centre of excellence in both heritage and contemporary ceramics​.

Links to C3 member affiliated organisations contributing to achieving World Craft City Status: 

The World Craft City jurors visiting Spode in Stoke with Professor Neil Brownsword. Photo: Jerome Whittingham.

The consolidated evaluation report by the jurors outlining the city’s recognition as a City of Ceramics can be viewed and downloaded here. 

Consolidated_Evaluation_Report_by_the_Jurors_-_Stoke-on-Trent[1]Download

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Guidelines for the use of our new WCC – World Craft City Certifacte and Logo  can also be downloaded from here. 

5. Certificate and Logo GuidelinesDownload

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