Pioneers Of Contemporary Glass

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

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.

The book is the first to provide a comprehensive worldwide suvery of the contemporary glass scene. The author reviews the history of glass since the early 1960's and considers the technical developments, influences, and changing attitudes that have contributed to the present flourishing state of the art. He looks at the rapid growth of glass education and the subsequent increase in interest in contemporary glass among museums, galleries and collectors, and then assesses the work of hundreds of contemporary glass artists from around the world. He describes their working methods and techniques, sources of inspiration, and their approach to their art.

"Although the process of melting sand to make glass has been used for thousands of years, the contemporary "art glass movement" began with a single workshop just 40 years ago. In the decades since, the movement has grown into an international phenomenon, fueled by the drama of hot-glass techniques and the dazzling beauty of frozen light, color and form." "Contemporary Glass: Color, Light & Form presents 130 contemporary glass artists who produce functional and sculptural works. All of these men and women have made glass their primary medium."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved

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.

"Author Andrew Moor begins by answering the most basic questions: What is glass art? How are the different materials distinctive? How and by whom is glass art made and installed? What is the artist's role? What do terms such as "float glass," "kiln glass," "flash glass," and "dichroic glass" mean? The book then presents a detailed survey of glass types and styles, from the simplest clear glass to the most complicated colored, carved, etched, and painted works of art." "Architectural Glass Art takes the reader through all the techniques and styles available today. Illustrations not only focus on the works themselves, but show how glass art is incorporated into public and private spaces as an integral part of a building's structure and style. Each chapter includes a special feature on a highly regarded international glass artist; discussions of their innovative designs are accompanied by examples of their work." "Architectural Glass Art is an invaluable resource and inspiration for students, designers, artists, and architects - everyone interested in the latest developments in the contemporary, artistic uses of glass."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved