Gerhard Richter - Cologne Cathedral

Finished this August, this impressive stained glass window in Cologne Cathedral has been made from 11,500 four-inch 'pixels', cut from antique - or handmade - glass in a total of 72 different colours, and measures 110m2. Richter is an artist who works in many different media, and this window relates to his 1974 painting entitled '4096 Colours'. In the transition from painting to glass, Richter didn't use the original 4096 colours, as they would've been historically inaccurate or too pale, outshining those squares around them. Instead he chose a palette to echo the colours of the glass that would've been available in the 13th century.
Apparently the Archbishop of Cologne isn't happy with the window, preferring the more traditional figurative approach. The window seems to link the 21st century with the 13th very successfully, both in its' use of antique glass and with the archaic hues, but also in its' mosaic-like appearance. Medieval glass uses lots of little pieces of glass and is rich in colour and texture. I likes it, me.

Artisan mizmo ??!!

If you're thinking 'Artisan what?' or 'mizmo who?', then we're in the same boat... I found these photos in Flickr, and they were credited to Artisan mizmo, so I feel obliged to do the same.
The panels use very simple painted decorative techniques to great effect. If you want to add detail and pattern in addition to that which the lead itself makes, this is a really effective method.
All of the panels have had the paint applied all over - a matt - and then, when it's dry the paint has been scraped away with various implements to reveal the coloured glass beneath. Just like that wax crayon thing we used to do at school!
The red centre panel in the bottom one is red on yellow flashed glass - it's been freely etched at the top to reveal the yellow base layer.

Devon Guild exhibition poster

Here's the details of the Devon exhibition I mentioned last week. I've yet to see it - I had the luxury of letting someone else hang it for a change. Let me know what you think if you see it before I do!

Geeks unite!

It's not that I'm saying you're a geek - and you know who you are - but here's a select few of the glass panels inspired by, well, geeky subjects! For the beginners, you could do all of these except Spiderman - but what do you expect from a super hero?

Peter Hammond - latest masterpiece

This is the Clifton house before the installation of Peter's windows. A little bare and in need of an original Hammond, methinks.


'Ere they be on the grass, waiting to find their rightful home.


Magnificent. I like the way the pink and white strip is weaving it's way happily around the larger blue and yellow shapes. It brings music to mind. Apparently Peter's client was so happy with the result, he wants the remaining five windows done too. That's what we like to hear!

Glass summer courses - London

Just so's you know there is a glass world outside Queens Road... Don't tell me if you go to one of these though, instead of mine or Scott's!!!! Only joking - the Pate de Verre one looks particularly interesting if you want to learn something new.

It's that Mark Angus again

Another figure emerges from Mark's creative world... or should that be whirl?

Here's what he says about the newest member of his growing community...

Thank you for the positive feedback! I look forward to the flicker!! I attatch an image from a series of 30 I made, float glass, etched, completely silver stained, line painted 60 x 47 cm.. I like it a lot!!!

Talking of flickr, I've put lots of images from Mark's demonstration day up, including the fired pieces. I'll mail you the link as I can't seem to get them live on the blog.

Mark Angus - demos and lecture day

I've managed to arrange a visit from Mark Angus (who taught me at Queens Road!) on Saturday 5th April, 9.30-4.

He's going to show us how he works, what inspires him, and lots of top tips from his years as a glass artist. He'll also be giving us a slide lecture of his work. This is a really great opportunity to learn lots of new things.

It should cost between £20-30 (depending on numbers) which covers paying Mark and overtime for the porter Geoff for the afternoon - a complete snip.

Could you let me know if you're interested (those not in my class), by mailing me on info@millyfrances.com, so I can get an idea of numbers?

Thanks.

For sale - various glass and a grinder

If you need a grinder, there's a very clean one for sale for £35 ono. That's less than half price. I have it at college if anyone's interested.

Also, a selection of glass is available to buy. If interested, give Sue Davis a ring on 01275 849935 and she'll give you more idea of what she's got.

Kiln for Sale

Kiln for Sale

A Rare Happening - a kiln for sale.

It's a Paragon DTC 800, condition as new, for £900 ono.

It's not a flat bed but a front loader, and has a chamber size of 34 X 56cm.

Buyer to collect. (that's the catch!)

If you're interested, give Sue Davis a ring on 01275 849935