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Putting it to the Test…
My lovely new tables have already been put to the test this week. I’ve been quite a busy bee, and done four classes in seven days, as well as making some of my own work (nice to use the kiln for me sometimes!)
It’s been great to have such a flexible space, and I cannot wait to finish it off by organising all my mixed up boxes of coloured glass and put them into their proper storage place too. When I’ve done it, I will show you!
Meanwhile, little sneak of some of workshop participants’ pieces, such a variety!
There’s a workshop this Tuesday evening if you fancy having a go yourself, as well Monday 17th December – you can book here: LATEST WORKSHOPS
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Sometimes it’s the little things….
Well, I guess you could actually say these are not so little… but some new studio furniture might seem the most exciting of things to some! For me though, it’s been something I have been looking forward to for quite some time.
When I first moved to Shed 2 Studios, eight years ago now, I made do with a lot of gifted items – old desks, spare cabinets, things salvaged from scrap piles – like a lot of people starting out, I guess.
Classes have proved successful for me, growing year on year, and my studio wasn’t the best layout – improved greatly by new shelving and worktops last year, but this week, I finally got my new mobile units – two different height tables, and a trolley designed specifically for glass storage. I’ve been a happy bunny this week, even though it means a good sort out! The tables can be placed in different formations which will make the space a lot more flexible.
The advantages of sharing a studio space with other makers – access to people with the skills to make furniture that is perfect for my needs! Thanks Travis of Evolution Revolution Workshops – the cakes are on me!
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Autumn Winter Workshops as Requested!
Plenty of people have been asking me for some new workshop dates, so here they are!
I’ve tried to add a variety of dates and types. A few Introduction to Glass Fusing sessions, which are full days where you learn to cut and break glass. You have an opportunity to design and make items in window glass before moving on to working with colourful art glass and a few more techniques. Without blinding you with science, I will also tell you a little more about the properties of glass and how and why we can do so many wonderful things. All safety equipment and specialist tools are provided.
I’ve also added in a few taster sessions. On these, you are provided with glass blanks and you design and decorate your items with my vast array of coloured glass and accessories. No glass cutting is involved, just the freedom to get creative, so the day is shorter. These are ideal for those with a little less time on their hands, or who may be nervous of the prospect of cutting glass. People with hand strength or dexterity issues as well as younger participants can take part in these sessions too. It also serves as a great introduction to the world of glass fusing without committing to a full course. I would point out that the studio is a working space and access is slightly restrictive because we have three steps at the entrance.
Taster sessions include a family fun workshop during school half term, a couple of sessions dedicated especially to Christmas decorations. We might break out the mince pies and non-alcoholic mulled wine and play a few seasonal tunes! As well as a chance to make some gifts in time for the big day.
Select the correct price workshop from the top drop down menu, and the actual date from the second menu. When you add to basket, there’s a chance to add more than one place if you’re booking for friends or family.
Session timings – any evening sessions will start around 6pm, but willing to be flexible with people’s commitments. Daytime tasters generally start mid to late morning, but again these can be flexible if need be.
Get in touch HERE if you have any questions or problems!
NOTE: SATURDAY, 19TH JANUARY IS NOW FULL – PLEASE GET IN TOUCH IF YOU WERE INTERESTED IN THAT DATE I MAY BE ABLE TO OFFER ANOTHER DATE CLOSE BY.
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Solo Exhibition
As part of my creative career to now, I’ve been part of several group or collaborative exhibitions, done a residency, created several pieces of site specific art work, regularly run fusing workshops as well as general arts and crafts with schools and community groups, I stock my work in galleries and have decided to dip my toe back in the world of craft/artisan markets again.
But soon, I will be doing probably the biggest ‘thing’ so far – I have a solo exhibition coming up! It’s both exciting, but also daunting, to think that I have to fill a whole gallery space by myself..
Now, I can’t say it will make the slightest bit of difference to my blogging practices, as once again I’ve been neglecting this! But the last few days have seen lots of planning, a bit of testing, and lots of asking questions and looking for opinions – yes, it’s MY exhibition, but I want to get it right!
It will be, shall we say, an eclectic mix – samples of older and some brand new work, both recycled and new glass, some more functional style pieces alongside purely decorative display work as well as the thought provoking response led work I did during the residency last year.
This time though, instead of a bit of work in the war gallery, I have the WHOLE room (did I say this was a solo show??) – the Lally Gallery at the lovely Erewash Museum in Ilkeston. And it’s on for nearly two months.
It’s an amazing opportunity to showcase my work, and also a chance for me to reflect on all I’ve learned and created, as well as to share a little bit of my knowledge of the world of glass.
The next three weeks will probably result in very little sleep, lots of fretting, and hopefully, no breakages! Wish me luck….
This is where it all began….
