I’ve been making stained glass, on and off, for nearly 20 years but since becoming a founding member and Director of the craft collective Firebrand Artisans in 2013 and gaining access to proper studio space I have been able to pursue my work on a full-time professional basis.
At my workshop, based in Shaftesbury, Dorset I now work on developing my own creative practice as well as undertaking commissions. I am fully equipped and experienced to produce stained glass windows and other works of art (mirrors, lamps, screens etc.) using lead or copper foil techniques as well as being able to undertake repairs. With a background in Fine Art, which I studied at Degree level, I am able to offer a comprehensive service, working closely with each client at every stage, from the initial design process through to the final installation to ensure total satisfaction with the finished product. I pride myself on striving to produce work of a high standard (being something of a perfectionist!) with attention to detail in the design and execution of every piece I create.
As part of a craft collective I am also able to offer a wider range of creative services to my clients by working collaboratively with my fellow members. Between us we are happy to work on joint projects that combine our skills – we will undertake anything incorporating woodwork, metalwork and stained glass, from beautiful gifts to commissions for bespoke handmade furniture or even unique shop-fitting and camper van conversions, all of which we have previous experience of producing for clients.
In regard to my own creative practice I find inspiration in a wide range of interests, from the natural world to mythology, philosophy, science and current affairs. Every piece of glass is made from my own original designs, which is an important part of the process for me. There is often a feel of an Art Nouveau style in my work, which is generally representational, or symbolic, more often than abstract. With the recent addition of a kiln to my studio I am currently looking forward to including traditional kiln fired glass painting in my work and experimenting with glass fusing.
The thing I love most about working with glass is the intrinsic beauty of the material itself, the way that the added element of light brings the glass alive and makes the colours sing which never fails to inspire me.
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