Historic ceramics turned into giant huggable sculptures at The Bowes Museum, perfect for the summer holidays

Launched on 26 July and running through to March 1, 2026, the show reimagines its renowned ceramic collection as Leeds-based artist Pippa Hale transforms porcelain companions into giant, huggable sculptures called ‘squishees’.

The exhibition is divided into 3 key areas including a playable sculpture section, a ceramic and community contribution display and a creative space. It’s a mini playground for curiosity, especially for children and families to see art from fresh, fun perspectives.

Known for her socially engaged, interactive practice, Pippa Hale brings her signature blend of playfulness and public participation to the show, drawing on history and playfully interpreting it through the lens of contemporary art to connect with audiences in new and exciting ways.

“I am so chuffed to be working with The Bowes Museum as I’ve admired it from afar for many years!” Hale said. “It has been a privilege to spend time with their extensive ceramics collection and to shine a light on the figurines of pets, some of which are truly exquisite and others quite hilarious.”

Connecting with all ages

Hale explored the museum’s 16th- to 19th-century ceramic collection, pioneered by founders Joséphine and John Bowes. Two treasured pieces, a Dog (c.1768) and Cat (c.1875), have been transformed into 24 giant, 2.5-metre-high ‘squishees’. Visitors can hug and climb these playful forms, creating an immersive experience that challenges traditional museum rules. By turning fragile ceramics into oversized, tactile art, Hale makes the collection accessible, fun, and personal.

“There’s such a broad range and I wanted to find a way for people of all ages and abilities to connect with them physically and enjoy them in different ways,” Hale said. “I hope this exhibition will spotlight our pet friends and how much joy they bring us.”

The exhibition also features a charming collection of over 50 ceramic pet figurines from the museum, displayed alongside treasured pet-themed ceramics kindly loaned by members of the local community. This section offers visitors the chance to uncover the stories behind these often overlooked pieces and delves into the political, economic and social circumstances that influenced their creation. Through this exploration, visitors gain a fascinating insight into how the role of pets in society has evolved over time.

Hands-on experience

Visitors can also get creative and have a go at making origami animals or join in workshops painting and decorating bisque replicas of the Cat and Dog ceramics. This hands-on area lets everyone get stuck into the creative side of things. As they personalise their own pieces, they’ll pick up a bit about how ceramics are made and have fun putting their own spin on it. It’s a relaxed, fun way to learn and get creative all at once.

While full of play, Pippa Hale: Pet Project represents a deeper ambition at The Bowes Museum to reimagine its rich ceramic heritage through contemporary, audience-focused exhibitions.

“I love Pippa’s work and the way she marries people, history and play in what she does,” said Vicky Sturrs, Director of Programming and Collections. “It’s so exciting to see Pippa Hale: Pet Project come to life in the museum. It’s a fantastic way to engage visitors with our ceramic collection in a fresh and interactive way.”

“Pippa’s blend of creativity, play and storytelling is a perfect match for our mission to inspire and connect people with art,” she added. “I’m so looking forward to seeing how our visitors interact with her work and form new relationships with objects in our collection.”

Pippa Hale: Pet Project runs until 1 March 2026 at The Bowes Museum, County Durham. Entry is included in general admission. For more information please visit thebowesmuseum.org.uk.