International Festival of Glass
British Glass Biennale was the highlight
of the festival
NetInfinity has supported the International Festival of Glass in hosting the largest and most prestigious display of contemporary glass the UK has seen this year, attracting glassmakers and enthusiasts from around the world.
The festival took place at the Ruskin Centre in Stourbridge glass quarter, 21-28 August 2006. It celebrated not only the history of skills of the area, but also promoted the diverse range of styles and techniques that reflects the strength of the current British Glass scene today.
The British Glass Biennale was a highlight of the festival and sat within the International Festival of Glass, a four day public festival celebrating the rich and dynamic world of glass. The main objective for this event was to raise the profile of the industry as being innovative, inspirational and collaborative and to attract international glassmakers to share in their skills and experiences.
The outstanding designs that were chosen for display at Biennale were submitted and judged by an expert panel who this year encouraged artists to be collaborative and innovative. There were two £5000 prizes up for gabs; one for best in show and the other for Made Together Award – a collaborative award encouraging artists to work together across different media, this was supported by net infinity through Advantage West Midlands (AWM) and European Regional Development fund (ERDF).
There was huge range of techniques and styles selected for the festival this year, which made for a diverse and fascinating show. Some of the methods used included product design, jewellery, furniture, lighting, lamp working and mixed media combining this with the traditional techniques of glass making. Artists were keen this year to utilize the latest techniques and technologies to achieve their art, using Computer Aided Design (CAD), water jet cutting, LED lighting, neon and internal laser engraving.
The recognition and rewards that the International Festival of Glass encompassed has attracted extensive global attention from collectors in America and Europe, providing a perfect opportunity for artists to sell work, as well as showcase their skills. The 2004 Biennale proved that 40% of the work was being sold with many artists receiving commissions.
The wide variety may also reflect the increasing art school/studio glass approach rather than previous traditional factory training. Students emerging from the art schools are more interested in edgy, eclectic concepts and sculptural pieces, rather than the more formal vessels and giftware. There is a dynamic originality and courage on display.
The 2004 Festival shocked everyone by its ambition and scale, and its huge success. This year artists from Australia, Czech Republic, Germany, USA, Canada and Denmark, and of course the UK, were showing off their skills and London based artist Peter Layton launched his touring exhibition celebrating 30 successful years of London Glassblowing.
The 2006 Festival offered a fabulous opportunity to experience the best of British in the traditional heart of UK glassmaking.
