Local artist keeps it glassy with council-funded workshops
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Posted on August 31, 2022
With its versatility, many colours and textures, glass has been at the centre of significant cultural and scientific advancements for thousands of years.
It’s no surprise then that 2022 has been officially declared the International Year of Glass by the United Nations.
To celebrate, local glass blower Michelle Gray showcased her love of the material by hosting several bead-making and glass-fusing workshops thanks to the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).
RADF funding is a partnership between the state and local governments to invest in quality arts and cultural experiences across Queensland.
‘I wanted to share my love of art and glass in an affordable way,’ said Gray.
‘RADF is fantastic for bringing art to people who otherwise might not have the means or accessibility to do so on their own, especially when it comes to melting glass.’
Gray started her artistic venture with glass in 1992 and has studied under one of Australia’s greatest glass blowers, Peter Minson (a third-generation glass blower), as well as some well-known Venetian glass artists (Davide Penso, Mauro Vianello, Mauro Bonaventura). Aside from this mentorship, Gray is a self-taught glassblower who has refined her skills through practice and study (before the days of Youtube).
‘It’s a little bit dangerous – which makes it all the more fun and challenging,’ said Gray.
To facilitate the workshops, each student was provided with an array of Venetian glass rods and a blow torch and gas set-up. Safety equipment was also provided.
Students were taught the safety procedures of working with glass, the science behind glass melting and the technique of forming and sculpting hot glass to make beads and pendants.
‘It has been wonderful to see people of all ages come out and have a try at hot glass work,’ said Gray.
‘I would love to host more workshops in the future.’
Gray, along with fellow artist Raelene Bock, were first-place recipients in the three-dimensional category of the Emerald Art Awards for their collaborative piece, Rich Harv$st. All entries to the Emerald Art Awards are on display at the Emerald Art Gallery until Sept 17.
Want to learn more about the International Year of Glass? Check out the Australian association of glass artists, or the official International Year of Glass website
For more information on RADF and the next round of funding head here
Venetian glass rods. Michelle Gray with glass rogs and blow torch set up.