Ian Godfrey

Glass has always been a fascinating material for me, its magnificence and energy just lightens your soul. I have heard many artists who,  after handling glass, have become beguiled by its properties, its challenges and the amazing ways in which it can be used to create mesmerising art. It changed my life.

From my original career as an apprentice in the printing industry I acquired the skills and traditions that embrace craftsmanship, attention to detail and excellence in your work. I only realised, over the last few years, how I have brought all of that into my glass work and design.

My creations and approach to art are underpinned by those ideals woven into my intricate designs and creations – exploring colour and form within those designs; utilising glass as a material to provide artwork that captures the heart, mind and feelings of the viewer as they engage with my work. I am strongly drawn to using all the colour palette that glass offers as I believe that the colours, with the design, bring a deep joy. I encourage everyone to pause at any of our artworks, just for 15 seconds, and allow themselves to explore the glass – they will always see more than they first imagined.

Key philosophies at the studio are to listen to wonderful music and be able to smile and enjoy working together – we are very fortunate to have a historic, natural and relaxed setting in which to work. Which is why we always enjoy clients coming to the studio to talk about their commission ideas and to explore ways we can get the glass just right for them.

I am always eager to explore not only new techniques but also new approaches to integrating glass within the home that many might never normally consider. Whether it’s a splashback, a new window or a garden sculpture I really believe it can transform a living space.

Over recent years it has been an amazing journey to develop new and complimentary skills in metal that have allowed me to develop glass and metal sculptural designs that utilise, primarily, stainless steel polished to create reflective forms that work with the glass. This culminated in having three of our pieces at RHS Chelsea in 2022, which was an amazing experience, as well as pieces at Cotswold Sculpture Park.

Recently it has been amazing to collaborate with other artists to explore the creative process and see how different minds and approaches can explore the manipulation of light and colour through glass to work with other artforms.

I see my own work further developing through the design of highly decorative glass influenced by traditional forms and patterns as well as integrating 3D elements within my future designs. Whichever direction it takes me the multifaceted nature of glass will hopefully lead towards different and eclectic artworks that just might make you stop for those 15 seconds.