My current work explores flow patterns in glass and has been developed during my Masters Degree. Glass is a fascinating material with unique properties. I approach my work in a methodical and scientific way to push these properties to the full. By learning about and controlling the viscosity of glass, I have been able to create novel and intriguing patterns. These patterns of flow were initially inspired by blood flow in the human body but have move beyond this to inform flow in a variety of contexts both in the natural world and human psychology. I want to find beauty in the finished piece, and I want to invoke engagement with the viewer.
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My work consists of both stained glass and fused glass pieces.Working with fused glass is like alchemy – you never quite know what will happen in the kiln and the effect leaded glass can have on a room is just magical, almost spiritual.
I am fascinated by the contrasts and harmonies generated by simply placing different colours side by side. My ColourWave series of designs explore blending of colours using groups of contrasting and harmonising coloured strands of glass. I use up to 500 strands placed in order by hand on a base layer of glass and then fuse them together in a kiln. The blending process I use generates smoothly varying colours but at the same time they also show intricate colour detail close up.
I completed my PhD research in 2021 and am now building on this research to create a new body of work which explore optical perception further.
In addition to my sculptural work I am currently working on two annual bespoke corporate award commissions, preparing information for teaching at Bild-Werk Franeau, Germany next Summer, and writing a paper to present at the GAS Conference 2024, in Berlin.
Heulwen makes glass table and dinner ware as well as developing a unique range of wash basins, tiles and splashbacks.
2019 – Stevens Competition 3rd Place and Commission Winner : The Gulf Stream Commission was installed at University College Hospital London in 2021 for the new Proton Beam Cancer Therapy Unit. Follow the journey for thecommission – https://hilaryruxton.com/ and instagram.com/hilaryruxtonart
2021 – Assisted with model making for Max Jacuard Studio https://www.maxjacquard.com/
for Queen’s Jubilee Glass Installation in Tower of London for Queens Jubilee 2022 –
2022 – Designed and installed The Abundance Window for St Peter & St Paul Church Tonbridge
2023 – Currently working on a commission for The Nurses’ League, King’s College Hospital in the St Luke’s Chapel on the 1st floor – a single-arched leaded window celebrating the Nurses’ League Centenary for 2024 – ‘Lights in the Darkness’