Hold On!

Hooksis is a collaboration of two sculptors; Kate Theodore and Alan Kean. Their work emphasises the combination of practicality and art, showcasing how sculpture can be beautiful, and also have a function.

Currently displayed in the Design House, the Hooksis are made by slip casting, which produces a thin but incredibly strong ceramic shell. The hook is first designed in clay, and subsequently a plaster mould is made, into which the slip is poured. After solidifying, the work is fired and glazed.

A limited edition of 30 hooks are made, which are divided into five sets, with five individuals. They are hung on the wall, are incredibly strong, and intended to be used.

Kate Theodore (b. 1981 in Eastleigh, Southampton) is an installation artist and sculptor. Her recent work examines how thought systems and beliefs manifest as physical objects in our world. Her sculptural objects are dimensional, practical, and made to be lived with.

After studying anthropology and philosophy at the University of Edinburgh in 2004, Kate Theodore followed Access to Art sculpture courses in London and Cyprus. In 2018 she obtained her MA in Fine Art Practice from Glasgow School of Art. She has exhibited widely across the UK, including at Chapel Arts, Andover; Gallery N16, London; and Kunst-stoffe, Berlin. Recent exhibitions include Drop the hammer, Glasgow Project Room (2020) and a group show at Queen Street Studios Gallery, Belfast in 2021. In 2006, Theodore was awarded the Lowes Dickenson Prize and has completed several artist residencies in Berlin and Brazil. Kate Theodore lives and works in Scotland.