Artist finds inspiration in agricultural show contests

The intricate mosaics have been created by Gloucestershire-based artist Cleo Mussi for a display called Pharma’s Market.

Inspired by a traditional agricultural show, with its prizes for livestock, fruit and vegetables, the artist has also included “folk farmers” and milk maids alongside “robot farmers” and sculptures intended to look genetically modified.

The old and the new are also represented in the materials used to make the mosaics, which ranges from Wedgwood china and Hornsea pottery to contemporary high street crockery.

Gallery curator Sally Hayes said: “We’ve had all sorts over the years but never had mosaics. The life-size figures are probably the best bit and there are bits of text and lots of things have got writing on them, like ‘best in show’, so that’s quite fun.

“I think people will enjoy looking at it.

“There’s lots of detail and plenty to keep you interested,” she added.

The exhibition opens tomorrow and runs until Saturday, September 10. The gallery is also hosting a family craft day inspired by the mosaics on Saturday July 30 from 10am until 3pm.