This course provided Kate with a broad understanding of both the design and production of objects, and allowed her to explore both traditional and modern production methods whilst utilising various materials such as ceramics, glass, metal, and wood.
For her degree show, Kate exhibited ‘Autumn Canopy’, a contemporary lead-light triptych, that incorporates fused glass elements to achieve a dappled reflection of colour.
Kate exhibit piece ‘Autumn Canopy’
We caught up with Kate in the studio recently to find out how she is settling in to life at Daedalian Glass Studios, one month in:
Q&A
First off, can you tell us a little about yourself – your background and what made you choose a career in glass working?
I have a background in fine art painting and sculpture and started my course at university with the hope of finding a new medium to focus my ideas. I became fascinated by glass due to the transparency and reflective qualities of the material, with the added elements of light and colour. Whilst glass can be a particularly challenging material to work with, I find it to be incredibly versatile, with endless different forms and finishes that can be achieved. As such, I spent my time at university learning several techniques that were available to me such as hot glass, kiln fusing and lampworking. Alongside this, I gained further experience interning for a small commercial glass studio, where I was taught how to use traditional glass paints and create leadlight panels.
Do you have any favourite (glass) artists?
One of my favourite glass artists is Paul Housberg. From what I have seen of his work, I can imagine getting lost in the random, yet organised patterns that he creates through repetition of tiles on a large scale; giving his designs an organic and harmonious feel. Similarly, due to the natural flow of colour, combined with irregular geometric patterns, I am inspired by the way in which John Piper and Patrick Reyteins created ‘Crown of Glass’, a striking stained-glass installation inside of Liverpool Coventry Cathedral.
Crown of Glass
Are there any glass working processes that you prefer artistically?
I find that leadlight is great for creating pattern and structure, whilst I really enjoy glass fusing as a way of exploring colour and texture in my work, adding further dimension and movement. I also find both processes of making to be very therapeutic as I can really get absorbed into the details, which in turn I like to translate through my designs.
You joined our team at Daedalian Glass Studios a month ago, tell us about your experience so far, what have you been working on? – I hope you are enjoying working here!
I’ve learnt a lot so far during my time here and have been involved in several different projects, including laminating fabrics between glass for a luxury hotel suite, as well as preparing samples for other exciting projects that are in their early stages.
How does being part of a working glass studio compare to your work at university?
It differs a lot being in a professional working environment. I get to work more as part of a team as opposed to individually, which means I can learn a lot from others that have had more experience within the glass industry. The equipment is also much more advanced, particularly in terms of the scale that we work to.
What’s the most important thing you have learnt so far?
That consistently quality checking the glass through each step of the making process and communicating any issues that may arise is crucial in preventing further setbacks, allowing us to deliver a successful high-end product every time.
Finally, looking ahead – where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years’ time?
I don’t have a specific plan by any means, but I do have certain aims for myself as a glass artist. Hopefully having expanded upon my skillset through working with Daedalian, I will be able to advance the quality of my own work, as well as progress within the company and take on more responsibilities. With the aim of developing and refining my practice further, I’d also love to find opportunities to do more collaborations with other artists and designers, both within the glass world and beyond.
Daedalian Glass Studios are always looking for talented individuals, like Kate, to join our growing team of glass workers. If you feel that this is you, please visit our Current Opportunities page to apply.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok
