Jack Durling
Jack Durling is a Brighton-based sculptural ceramicist known for creating intricate animal sculptures that highlight natural behaviours and conservation themes, inspired by his childhood in Dungeness and the South Downs. His work features textural contrasts and uses decorative embellishments, he has exhibited internationally, run workshops, and is involved in public art projects.
Jack Durling is a Brighton-based ceramicist who began hand-building with clay at the age of fifteen. Inspired by the natural world, he creates distinctive ceramic sculptures that celebrate animal species through form, texture, and detail. His work combines a range of techniques, often enriched with lustres and added elements, resulting in pieces that are as decorative as they are thought-provoking. Alongside their beauty, these sculptures carry subtle messages about conservation and the environment. Deeply committed to animal welfare, Jack also supports wildlife charities and protection initiatives.
Jack’s fascination with nature was shaped in childhood during time spent in Dungeness, a place of striking textures and wild landscapes. This early influence evolved into a defining feature of his practice: the use of contrasting textures. Now based near the South Downs National Park, he continues to draw inspiration both from local surroundings and from more endangered species worldwide. His artistic career includes recognition as an alumnus of the Crafts Council, with works held in their permanent collection.
Alongside his studio practice, Jack tutors at the renowned West Dean College of Arts and Conservation and delivers visiting workshops at other institutions.
His public commissions include the Shared Memories Mural, a freestanding sculpture permanently installed in Mote Park, Maidstone, in 2023. In 2022, his Penguin Colony was shortlisted and commended for the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year. His work has also reached wider audiences through features in Amazon’s The Power and on seasons six and seven of The Great Pottery Throw Down.
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