Sunday 12 June 2016

I love the sound of cutting glass


Its a unique sound as you pull the tungsten carbide wheel over the glass..... you can hear the molecules re-arranging themselves (well, that's what it sounds like to me) as they all line up ready to break apart with the slightest encouragement. How does it work? I know the science behind it, but it still is a pretty mysterious thing to witness.

Recently I have been working on a large mosaic commission made entirely of glass. It has been a great experience. I have become much more intrigued with glass as a medium. 


Here is the start of one of the panels. 

Like most art forms once you delve into it there is a wealth of history, skill, tradition and innovation attached to it. 


I have always wanted to learn stained glass techniques. When I do I will let you know! Here is the Matisse's work in Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence, so simple, so beautiful.




And here is John Piper's work at Coventry Cathedral


There is something so awe-inspiring about light coming through glass. Religious or not, I suspect it affects everyone in a similar way - perhaps tapping into the age-old thrill of seeing a rainbow? (still gets me every time).

I have just been practicing cutting curved lines and will definitely incorporate some hand cut glass into my next mosaic project.

Here is a great short video on how to cut glass


how to cut glass








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