What does it mean to you to join the North Lands Creative network and be part of building a community for glass?
Community is important especially in challenging times. Being part of the network enables one to be connected to community that has the same interests in a material and reduces isolation.
Tell us about your work. What influences translate into your art practice?
My work is based around using industrial technology predominantly water-jet both working in three and five axis along with digital printing. My practice very much based around industrial collaboration and how observing those interactions between the two creative and industrial sectors. Other influences are my everyday surroundings and the environment that we live within.
Has this changed the way you approach your work?
My approach has adapted, developing long-term partnerships with industry to be able to pursue ideas. Without regular access to waterjet machines I resort to digital printing, so I combine applications to help develop a more sustainable practice that can be undertaken in the small home studio I have.
What initially captured your imagination about glass?
I became interested in glass during my foundation, there was not glass on the course but somehow it grabbed my attention and has been with me ever since. I wanted to learn a skill and this material offered that focus.
What’s the significance of the handmade to you?
Its all about balance, concept and form. The idea is important and the tools manufacture whether digital or handmade should suit those ideal.
What was your route to becoming an artist?
My route was quite traditional and would probably say since the PhD (2006), I am an academic artist and the work continues to develop from that enquiry. Being a full-time educator, my practice has had to fit around that role. Maybe, I should claim to be a part-time artist.