Contemporary International Glass

Introduction p. 6 Note to reader p. 17 Artists' biographies p. 18 List of artists in the V & A p. 140 Glossary p. 141 Further reading p. 142 Acknowledgements p. 143.

For five thousand years, artisans have worked in glass to create forms that serve and delight. But only recently have artists turned their hands and minds to this traditionally utilitarian and decorative material. Clearly Inspired: Contemporary Glass and Its Origins contrasts the work of contemporary glass artists with examples of earlier glass that have inspired them to rediscover or reinvent forgotten techniques. Transforming an ancient craft into a contemporary art, they honor the past while making visual statements that are very much of our time.

A guide to glass fusing, glass slumping, and related kilnforming techniques.

Contemporary Glass profiles over sixty contemporary glassmakers working today, examining the ever increasing ways that the technical and conceptual boundaries of glass design are being challenged and merged with art and fashion. Featuring and inspiring collection of work by international artists, both emerging and established, including Angus M Powers, Beth Lipman, Fred Wilson, Ingrid Nord, Minako Shirakura and Tobias Rehberger and many more. Contemporary Glass presents essays that focus on the history of glass, from as early as 3000 BC, when it was traditionally used as a pottery glaze, through to contemporary glassmaking techniques. Further essays introduce the new approaches that contemporary makers are adopting and examines the direction in which this medium is presently moving, whilst addressing some of the recurring concepts and themes prevalent in contemporary glass design. Contemporary Glass presents and authoritative overview of an arts and craft scene that is both departing from, and building on its origins, while forming new directions within which practitioners work and wherein their work is appreciated. 300 colour & b/w illustrations

"A global survey of artists putting kiln-formed glass techniques into practice."--Publisher's description.

They’re the very best in contemporary glass beadmaking, 1000 dazzling and unique examples by an international array of artists. This color survey has it all: the beads come single or in multiples, in jewelry or sculptural pieces, flameworked and kilnformed; and their diversity and beauty are amazing. Julia Skop’s intriguing Secret Surprise showcases clear glass beads with millefiori slices at the ends. Bruce St. John crafts his beads out of diachroic glass, then fuses and coldworks them at the lapidary well after completion. Nebula Black Necklace, from Rene Roberts, features an organic-looking focal bead adorned with fine metal leaf, glass shards, and a subtle dot decoration. An artist’s comment and detail image accompany many of the photos. A Selection of the Crafters Choice Book Club.

"Traces the development of the studio glass movement with entries on thirty outstanding works by twenty six international artists"--Provided by the publisher.