MICHAEL HARDY
Michael Hardy was born in Brighton, Sussex and studied at the Brighton College of Art and Design.
He trained initially as an industrial designer, but began to work as a studio potter and sculptor after studying with sculptor/potter John Berry. He taught for three years in a school in Worcestershire before moving to Hertfordshire where, for many years, he combined his work as an artist with his role as a college lecturer. He was for many years Principal Lecturer in Art and Design at the University of Hertfordshire, but now devotes most of his time to his work as a sculptor and potter.
Michael Hardy is an elected member of the Society of Designer Craftsmen and exhibits regularly with the London Potters Group. He has been involved with church and other architectural restoration work. He is also the author of books on Handbuilt and Coiled ceramics, both published by A&C Black. He was also asked to demonstrate his making techniques at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
He works in a wide range of materials and much of his work is related to the human form.
Michael Hardy's work has been exhibited widely and includes the following galleries and locations.
Alwin Gallery - Tunbridge Wells
Ashdown Gallery - Uckfield
Atmosphere Gallery - London
Barclaycraft - Brighton
Brighton Art Gallery
Brian Starkey Gallery - Sutton
Camden Arts Centre
Direct Art Ltd - Luton
Dudley Art Gallery
Gloucester Road Underground - London
Hanbury Manor - Nr. Ware
Herbert Gallery - Coventry
Hitchen Gallery
Letchworth Museum and Art Gallery
Mall Galleries - London
Margaret Harvey Gallery - University of Hertfordshire
Morley Gallery - London
New Maynard Gallery - Welwyn Garden City
Old Bakehouse Gallery - Chichester
Playhouse Gallery - Harlow
Radlett Arts Centre
RBSA Gallery - Birmingham
Redbourn Museum
Riverside Gallery - Devon
Royal Academy - London
Swiss Crafts Council - Berne and Zurich
Walkern Gallery - Hertfordshire