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2026 OFFICIAL SELECTION / FILMS / STAFFORDSHIRE FILMMAKER
NOMINEE AND FINALIST

Philip Hardaker: Sculptured to Speak

Henry John Sedgley
United Kingdom · 10 min · English · Drama
SYNOPSIS

This documentary explores the life and work of sculptor Philip Hardaker, an artist who uses mosaic sculptures to convey powerful narratives about global events and human struggles. Through his art, Hardaker reflects on themes such as war, various social issues and modern crises. The film delves into the decline of Stoke-on-Trent’s once-thriving ceramic industry.

Henry John Sedgley
ABOUT THE FILMMAKER
Henry John Sedgley

Henry Sedgley is a filmmaker and aspiring cinematographer based in Staffordshire. His work focuses primarily on documentary filmmaking, with a particular interest in people, their stories and creative processes. Henry makes his festival directorial debut with Philip Hardaker: Sculptured to Speak, which follows mosaic sculptor Philip Hardaker and his connection to the pottery industry in Stoke-on-Trent. Henry has directed and produced several documentary projects, including The Robin Wight Method, exploring the work, artistic identity and creative process of fairy maker Robin Wight. His documentary work has also taken him to Gloucestershire, where he is currently developing a film about 23-time Cheese Rolling Champion Chris Anderson. Henry is a BA (Hons) graduate of Staffordshire University. Alongside documentary filmmaking, Henry works commercially as a freelance videographer and AC, creating promotional and branded content for businesses and organisations.

CREDITS
DIRECTED BY
Henry John Sedgley
PRODUCED BY
Felix Massouras
KEY CAST
Philip Hardaker
MADE AT
University of Staffordshire
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