Ceramic artworks are usually of modest dimensions, from dainty trinkets through to functional items such as a teapot, but occasionally people who work with clay are able to create large pieces for display.

Potter Rob Sollis most recently presented his work before an entirely different audience after spending four months at Pinewood Studios fashioning the mysterious burnished vessels used in Ridley Scott’s new science fiction film Prometheus, the prequel to Alien, which is out now. Apparently, the filmmakers needed a ceramic specialist and when they did an online search, Rob's name popped up so he lucked in on the job. His vases play a major part of the plot in the movie as they contain a deadly liquid that teems with a tentacled life-force we are only too familiar with.

From July 6 to 8, Rob will be exhibiting at Art in Clay at Hatfield House. No stranger to the event, having previously exhibited in 1997 and 2004, Rob returns with enthusiasm to demonstrate the raku firing techniques he used to create the unique vessels seen in the Prometheus movie. Rob will also be exhibiting a new body of work created over the past 12 months. An exceptional display of ceramics and pottery, the Art in Clay three-day outdoor event introduces visitors to makers from across Europe with more than 180 stands featuring incredibly imaginative and creative work made in clay.

Established potters who will be exhibiting at the show include Robin Welch, Mary Rich and Svend Bayer, alongside these will be newcomers and graduates showing for the first time.

There is also a full programme of talks and demonstrations for those interested in the technical side of ceramics, and ongoing demonstrations within the marquees. There will be an amazing array of skills on show and a variety of work from garden pots to domestic-ware, life-size sculptures and some very original art in clay.

Art in Clay is also an entertaining family day out with two areas where adults and children over four can show their creative side. In the Throw-a-Pot marquee an experienced thrower will help you to make your very own pot to take home with you and in the Make and Take area there will be helpers available to inspire you to mold or sculpt your own creation.

The 18th Art in Clay Pottery & Ceramics Festival comes to Hatfield House, Hertfordshire from July 6-8. Details: www.artinclay.co.uk