Artist Statement

I fell in love with the ephemeral qualities of glass over 35 years ago while studying Architectural Stained glass at Swansea College of Art, graduating in 1988. I went on to work in stained glass studios in Japan and Australia before returning to the UK, where I trained to teach. Now retired from Secondary Education, I create original, individually designed and handmade fused glass and stained-glass pieces based around a variety of themes. I am heavily inspired by the natural world and I'm particularly drawn to pattern, colour and texture. I design and make gifts, homeware and artwork using a range of contemporary techniques and heritage craft skills. These include kiln formed glass processes such as kiln carving, fusing and slumping, together with traditional glass painting, staining, sandblasting, acid etching, lead work and copper foiling. I enjoy the challenge of combining some of these techniques in pieces. My products range from hangings and sun-catchers, coasters, plates, curve and wave stands, to wreaths, lanterns, art pieces and stained-glass panels. I work to commission and supply several galleries in Leicestershire and around the country. Materials such as American Bullseye, millefiori, dichroic glass and cabochons are used in my work, together with antique handmade and machine-made glass and lead came. And not being able to leave my love of teaching behind, I deliver fused glass and stained -glass courses for Leicestershire Adult Learning Service, together with private classes from my home studio in fused glass, copper foiling, glass painting and stained glass.