Art Conceptions in Current Flameworking

An international Conference 25th March 2009

Organised by IIRG, with the Crafts Council

Flameworking is a vital and relevant area of glass practice. It is becoming especially important given the high costs of working in hot glass as it is highly adaptable to various production concerns. Operationally flameworking can fit domestic and studio environments, being more adaptable, environmentally friendly and sustainable than other forms of hot glass working. Equally a wide range of methods and ends can be achieved, from decorative objects to neon light works. Flameworking is more advanced and ambitious in the USA and in Europe than currently in the UK.

Consequently, the Crafts Council, in collaboration with the University of Sunderland is piloting a Flamework Fellowship scheme to enable three established artists to creatively experiment, learn new techniques and advance this skill in the UK. Recent international flamework experimentation is pushing boundaries between craft and art in glass.

This conference presented a unique overview of international flameworking practice through artists' presentations and demonstrations.

Speakers included: Prof. Sylva Petrova, Jochen Holz, Jerome Harrington, Angela Jarman, Keiko Mukaide,  Ayako Tani, Richard Wheater, Sarah Blood, Zoe Garner and Carrie Fertig.

Demonstrations were held in the University of Sunderland Flamework studio.