Adam Aaronson, glass artist
Naomi Jones talks to Adam Aaronson, a glass artist who is passionate about promoting the work of fellow makers.
When did you start working with glass?
In the late 1970s. I attended a glass blowing course with Peter Layton (londonglassblowing.co.uk) and was instantly captivated by the process. I had no previous experience; in fact, I had recently finished a degree in International Relations.
Quite a change in career, then…
I had intended to return to university to study International Law; but I was soon drawn into the gallery world via my mother, who had started a business selling antiques and British glass. I persuaded her that we should concentrate on contemporary British glass and we opened two galleries in the early 1980s. In 1987, I founded a studio in Clerkenwell, London, and was able to work as a dedicated maker – it also offered other glass blowers the opportunity for formal residencies. My present studio is in Earls Court and our gallery (zestgallery.com) is next door. Promoting other artists and having a venue for the exhibition of their work, as well as my own, is very important to me.
You obviously enjoy giving back to your industry…
Well, I started by doing a course for pleasure and now I run my own classes and talks in the workshop for exactly that reason: if I can inspire others to create, and potentially to contribute to the field of glass making then that’s fantastic.
What’s the atmosphere like in the workshop?
There’s a dynamic feel about the place: as you can imagine, it’s busy, but we avoid the ‘nose to the grindstone’ mentality; preparation and clever groundwork is the key.
What inspires your creations?
Working with glass is a huge instigator for creation itself – the medium is difficult to work and requires fast paced skill and accurate timing. Glass always attempts its independence, so in many instances it adds an unexpected idiosyncrasy to the work.
Where do you find ideas for your patterns?
Some of my early works have surface patterns reminiscent of Impressionist painting, but I’m also an admirer of abstract styles. I live on the River Thames and am often influenced by sunsets and light on the water.
Which piece are you most proud of?
My recent series of works – Landscapes – is particularly important to me at the moment; I have been working on these sculptural vessels for two years and I’m still evolving the designs. The combination of earthy colours, silver leaf and subtle horizontal patterns creates interesting designs.
Who do you most admire in the arts and crafts world?
There is a very long list of individuals whose work inspires me, including painter and glassmaker Maurice Marinot and Arts & Crafts ceramic artist William de Morgan.
What advice would you give others who would like to be more creative?
Do something simple; you never know what might result.
For more information on Adam’s work, courses, or exhibitions, visit adamaaronson.com or call 020 7610 3344.
FEATURE NAOMI JONES
Featured in the July 2010 issue of Period Living
