'Ken & Ken (the Topp Twins)'

item details

Name'Ken & Ken (the Topp Twins)'

ProductionPaul Rayner; artist; 2011; New Zealand

ClassificationToby jugs

Materialsglaze, ceramic

Materials SummaryGlazed ceramic

DimensionsOverall: 205mm (width), 320mm (height), 135mm (depth)

Registration NumberGH021043

Credit linePurchased 2011

Overview

'Ken Ken' is part of artist Paul Rayner's toby jug series. Since 2004, Rayner has focused on making ceramic works that reference and update traditions such as toby jugs, 'character mugs', Staffordshire figurines, and other popular culture items.

Ken and Ken are two of several alter egos created by New Zealand singing and comedy duo The Topp Twins. The two Kens are modeled on stereotypical Kiwi blokes propping up the bar at a pub.

The Topp Twins
The Topp Twins have been delighting audiences with their music and comedy since the 1980s. Their comedy television series which ran for three seasons from 1996 to 2000 was extremely popular. Their affectionately drawn stereotypical New Zealand characters enabled New Zealanders from all walks of life to laugh at themselves. The successful 2009 documentary movie The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls traced their rural upbringing, lesbian relationships, music and comedy, and activism.

Activists
The twin sisters (Jools and Lynda) have been committed activists at the forefront of social change campaigns, including Maori rights, the anti-nuclear movement, and gay rights. In 1981, they took part in the protests against the South African Springbok rugby team tour of New Zealand, which divided the country.