BRIAN KENNEDY is an independent curator whose career in craft and applied arts is marked by innovation and influence. His journey began with the Crafts Council of Ireland, where he shaped a new narrative in contemporary craft through exhibitions such as “Forty Shades of Green” and “Crafted Creatures,” redefining the landscape of Irish craft.
Kennedy's impact extends beyond national borders. In New York, he curated “Material Poetry” and “Dubh – Dialogues in Black” at the American Irish Historical Society, while in London, his “In Residence” series with the Oliver Sears Gallery further cemented his international presence. His collaborations with Walpole on “Crafted - Makers of Excellence” at Somerset House and the Royal Academy demonstrated his ability to blend tradition with contemporary relevance.
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From 2015 to 2020, Kennedy's curatorial range was evident in projects such as “VASE, Function Reviewed” at the National Craft Gallery in Ireland and his role as Artistic Director for TRESOR Contemporary Craft Fair in Basel, where he launched the fair in 2017. His 2018 exhibition, “Dialogues Through Time” for TRESOR in Basel showcased his talent for weaving intricate, temporal narratives.
In recent years, Kennedy has continued to make significant contributions, curating booths for TASTE Contemporary in Geneva, Milan and Monte Carlo and organizing exhibitions for the Ting-Ying Gallery and the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust at Collect Fair. His 2021 project, “Crafting a Difference” in London, and his 2022 Fortnum & Mason’s Platinum Jubilee exhibitions, further highlight his enduring influence and versatility in the field.
PETER TING, a celebrated ceramist and designer, is known for his inventive and elegant contributions to ceramics and tableware. Born in Hong Kong and educated in the United Kingdom, Ting's work reflects a synthesis of Eastern and Western influences, characterized by its sophistication and occasional whimsy.
After graduating from Farnham and Cardiff, Ting’s distinctive style quickly garnered attention. His work melds traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics, evident in his collaborations with renowned brands like Thomas Goode, Royal Crown Derby and Asprey, where he served as Head of Design. His tenure as creative director for Legle Asia reimagined traditional Chinese tableware for a new generation of contemporary Chinese chefs and restaurants. His creations, notable for their intricate detailing, blend artistic sensibility with functional elegance, merging beauty with utility, leaving an enduring mark on the field of ceramics.
Beyond ceramics, Ting has broadened his scope to include interior design and luxury goods. His pieces are featured in prestigious collections at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, MAD New York, and M+ in Hong Kong. Ting is also a committed educator, frequently lecturing and leading workshops to nurture emerging talent.
Alongside Brian Kennedy, he now channels his efforts into advancing the philanthropic mission of the KENNEDYTING organization.
ALEXA GRAY joined KENNEDYTING in 2023, with more than 15 years’ experience in the industry, Alexa spent many years working for a leading dealer, where she specialised in 18th-century decorative arts and contemporary ceramics. Following that she went on to run the studio of a major artist, initiating and managing collaborations with museums, galleries, and international art fairs. Alexa now runs her own art consultancy specialising in ceramics and museum relations.
Alexa advises KENNEDYTING on the selection of Institutions that are eligible for the Annual Curation Grant and is the primary contact for any enquiries relating to it.
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