Penny Riley-Smith

Region:Yorkshire

Technique:Casting, Hot glass, Kiln work

Occupation:Artist, Student

Discipline:Decorative, Functional, Sculptural

Areas of Interest:Exhibition, Networking, Techniques

Product:Architectural, Commission, Design/ Functional/ interiors, Fine Art, Sculptural, Sculpture, Table ware, Wall pieces, Windows

Country:United Kingdom

County:North Yorkshire

I came to glass from a background in Fine Art, working as an art and ceramics teacher. Buying a glass kiln I fell in love with the art of creating in glass, its transparency, colour, and scattered light. Kiln-firing is a satisfyingly versatile way to produce images. I use powders with silkscreen printing and stencils to create layers of colour. Depending on the idea I am conveying, sometimes I fuse waterjet cut segments. My pieces often carry a message, speaking of environmental changes and the ways that people affect their surroundings. Sometimes they raise uncomfortable issues. Other pieces speak of the intricacy of our surroundings. Living in beautiful Nidderdale, I use glass to explore the wildlife around me, the movement of air and water, fish and birds. My wanderlust takes me travelling with astronomers to see solar eclipses, and with textile artists to India, all of which informs my glass art.

I am within a year of finishing a B.A. course in Glass and Ceramics at the University of Sunderland, where I have gained new skills in glass art, specialising in kiln-firing and glass casting. The department is equipped with a wide range of equipment including multiple kilns, waterjet cutter, architectural glass department, as well as hot glass and flameworking, and all of these have found a place in my work.
A recent project, showcased at the Undergraduate Research Conference in Newcastle, explored different types of glass and casting methods expressing aspects of water pollution, with uranium glass representing toxicity, and bubbles rising through cloudy glass refer to methane escaping from sediment. These samples will lead to larger cast pieces showcasing water pollution. Attractive but deadly!
I feel very fortunate to have benefited from skilled teaching in a welcoming environment to learn new skills. Unfortunately the course will close in 2026.