Something Out of Ordinary, the first major solo exhibition of new work by ceramicist Simon Ward, has opened at the Dick Institute in Kilmarnock.

In his work he blends delicately created porcelain forms with found materials such as wood, metal and concrete. The work aims to explore the role and context of porcelain in both interior and exterior environments.

One of the themes in his work involves researching how ordinary functional objects such as utensils and tools can be given new status, paying homage to 50s and 60s design and kitchenalia. The exhibition features specially commissioned sculptural pieces in addition to items from his personal collection of international classic design.

Simon, who studied ceramics at South Glamorgan Institute in Cardiff, is based in Scotland and lectures at Gray’s School of Art.

His work has been shown throughout the world and he has collaborated with artists such as Ian Hamilton Finlay and Keiko Mukaide. His work is represented in international collections in Britain and Japan.

Something Out of Ordinary is on from 2 February to 28 March 2008 at the Dick Institute, 1 Elmbank Avenue, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire KA1 3BU.  Open 11am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday.  Closed Monday and Sunday.  Admission free.