Robbie Williams inspires Jesus and Pope artwork

Robbie Williams has partnered with a ceramics firm to create technicolour artworks of Jesus and The Pope.

Stoke-on-Trent firm 1882 Ltd crafted the pieces, basing them on sketches drawn by the star who was born and raised in the city.

The multi-coloured clay creations, which took several weeks to make, were debuted this week at the Frieze 2024 art show in London.

Williams said: “I'm from Stoke and we are the Potteries and it's what we are famous for. It’s what has given us relevance on the map, in the UK and around the world.

“It is ingrained in me – we are of clay.”

The singer described his drawings as “inklings” – personal reflections or observations of others that are drawn in a vivid pop art style.

He was inspired by what he described as “simple, childlike drawings” that were featured in John Lennon’s book A Spaniard in the Works.

“I suppose that planted the seed that maybe art was something I could also do,” he said.

He described creating the works with 1882 as a "blessing" and said it "feels good" to be creating art with a firm from his home city.

Emily Johnson, founder of 1882 Ltd, said it was “inspiring” to see Williams exploring an artistic venture and supporting a local business.

“Robbie is an audacious visionary and it has been a joy to work with him and bring his artwork to life - a true meeting of the minds of Stokies - and this is just the beginning,” she said.

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