Renowned ceramic artist Jin Eui Kim’s solo exhibition transforms The Base Gallery this summer

Opening on Friday 26 June and running through to Sunday 30 August, the exhibition brings together a striking series of sculptural works that explore the intriguing themes of illusion and reality.

Working with carefully shaped clay, Jin Eui creates pieces using tonal gradients, precise lines, and patterns, giving his sculptures the appearance that they transform as the viewer moves around them. The work is rooted in optical illusions and influenced by Optical Art, and Jin Eui’s practice reflects a deep fascination with perception and spatial awareness.

Originally from South Korea and now based in Cardiff, Jin Eui Kim is an internationally acclaimed ceramic artist. He studied at Cardiff School of Art & Design, where he developed his distinctive exploration of tonal bands on three-dimensional surfaces, graduating with both an MA and a PhD in Ceramics. His work has been exhibited widely across the UK and internationally and is held in major public collections including Manchester Art Gallery and the National Museum Wales.

A thoughtfully curated programme of events runs alongside the exhibition, offering visitors of all ages meaningful ways to engage with both the artwork and the gallery environment. Our Summer of Clay features a huge range of workshops from Pottery Throwing and Raku Clay to Silver Clay or Polymer Clay Jewellery Making.

Visitors can enjoy a special evening Talk with Jin Eui Kim himself on Thursday 9 July. The event begins with an opportunity to view the exhibition, before moving into Honesty café for an insightful talk and masterclass. Jin Eui will introduce his practice and discuss the development of a recent project, sharing how ideas evolve from initial concept to finished work. This will be followed by a live wheel-throwing demonstration, offering a rare glimpse into both the technical precision and creative thinking behind his distinctive sculptures.

Our Songs and Stories in the Gallery sessions (Sat 4 Jul, Thu 23 Jul, Sat 8 Aug and Thu 20 Aug) make the perfect introduction to exhibitions for the smallest members of the family, as visitors join professional singer Louise Ashdown through a gentle session of nursery rhymes, story readings, sensory play and movement. Set within the inspiring surroundings of the gallery, these sessions provide a calm and creative space for bonding and early exploration.

Families are also warmly encouraged to attend dedicated Family Days (Sat 18 Jul and Thu 13 Aug), where the building becomes a vibrant hub of creativity. Visitors can explore the exhibition together, peek inside artist studios, and follow art-inspired trails, while the upstairs space is transformed with free, hands-on art and craft activities inspired by the exhibition. These days are designed to make the gallery feel welcoming and engaging for younger audiences, offering an opportunity to create, play, and connect through art.

We will also host Relaxed Days (Thu 2 Jul and Thu 27 Aug), where small but significant adjustments help create a more comfortable experience for those who prefer a quieter environment. Visitor numbers will be limited through timed entry, background music will be turned off, and hand-dryers replaced with disposable towels to reduce noise, making the exhibition more accessible for visitors with neurodivergences or anyone with sensory sensitivities.

For those looking to experience the exhibition in a more social setting, Gallery Lates (Thu 16 Jul and Thu 20 Aug) extend the opening hours until 8pm. These evenings offer the chance to unwind midweek, enjoy the work at a slower pace, and take in the atmosphere with friends or loved ones. Visitors can also sample complimentary tasters from Renegade Brewery, adding an extra touch to a unique cultural night out.