Grayson Perry

An artist, writer and broadcaster, Perry may be the most recognisable artist working in Britain today. He is best known for his ceramic vases, tapestries and alter-ego Claire, as well as his observations of the contemporary arts scene. His broad and complex practice has been said to dissect British "prejudices, fashions and foibles". There is also a strong autobiographical element to his work.

Upon winning the Turner Prize in 2003, Perry initially became known to the public through his ceramic work. Technically brilliant and dazzlingly complex, his pots weave complex narratives that combine aesthetic pleasure with often disturbing content. Perry has described pottery as holding a humility that fosters greater understanding between artist and viewer. 

His diverse practice also extends into other media, including tapestries, etchings and woodcuts. He has described tapestry as "...the art form of grand houses". They depicted classical myths, historical and religious scenes or epic events such as Hannibal crossing the Alps. I enjoy the idea of using this costly and ancient medium to show the commonplace dramas of modern British life." Perry was elected to the Royal Academy as a printmaker, and his large-format prints embrace the flexibility of digital drawing tools to expand the formal possibilities of etching and woodcut techniques.