Artist’s Perspectives
I come from a long line of craftsmen, five generations of cabinet makers and blacksmiths, and am naturally drawn to the creative process of making. I have always been passionate about fine art and sculpture; I am drawn to narrative, to the possibilities of composition and the play of light.
The artists to whose work I return most often are Giotto, Caravaggio and Vermeer, and the 20th century artists Brangwyn, Modigliani, Sonia Delaunay and Mark Rothko. I am interested in sculpture, especially the work of Rodin, and the ever evolving work of Grayson Perry. In stained glass, I admire the figurative work of Wilhelmina Geddes, and the bold symbolism and dramatic textures of Piper and Reyntiens.
I have been fortunate enough to have been creating contemporary stained glass for over 25 years. Each project presents new challenges and offers new possibilities to engage the viewer through good design and craftsmanship, and by creating energy and movement bringing together contemporary and traditional elements. The building and the qualities of each particular space inspire the ‘feel’ of the artwork, be it figurative, abstract or sculptural.
In my figurative and representational work, I aim to create narrative and dialogue which engages people with new ways of telling traditional or contemporary stories. I use abstraction to create layers of movement and meaning, underpinned by geometric principles that integrate the window into its surroundings. I feel that my work is rooted in ancient craft, but not bound to one particular tradition or style.
I am passionate about extending my work beyond the two dimensions in which stained glass usually operates, by incorporating sculpture that emphasises the human scale of the artworks and acts as an intermediary between the viewer and the glass. I have had invaluable advice and assistance with my three-dimensional work in copper from the artist and sculptor Harold Gosney.
Text also plays an important role within my designs, often becoming an integral part of the work. I design the placement for the lettering, with Charles Smith FRSA, Phil Thomas RSAW and Tracey Sheppard FGE creating styles of lettering for several of my windows.
I enjoy collaborative work, especially with the conservators and glaziers of the Barley Studio team, as well as with other artists. In recent years I have had the privilege of working with Royal Academy painters David Hockney and Hughie O’Donoghue, translating their artworks into glass. These collaborations have greatly enriched my own practice.
I believe that new stained glass windows should be in harmony with their surroundings but should also speak of today; engaging, even challenging, the viewer and guiding them on an emotional and artistic journey.