Niki is a glass maker inspired by nature and coastal scenes
My work primarily uses recycled materials to create images inspired by the natural world. Originally trained as a printmaker, I began working with glass about 10 years ago and quickly became fascinated by the process of fusing, finding many parallels with my printmaking process as both utilise collage and layering to build up images.
I create pieces using two different types of glass but my preference is for the beautiful grey green float glass, as I love the natural, subtle colour palette and because it allows me to recycle materials that would otherwise end up in landfill. The colour works so well with the fish and reminds me of sea glass collected off the Cornish coast.
To create each piece I layer the cut glass with ‘inclusions’ such as copper, silver, fusing flakes and baking powder and finish with liquid glass which is piped onto the base prior to fusing.
The other glass I use is a professional fusing glass, this allows me to work with colour creating vibrant designs. Again I try to use scrap glass as much as possible to reduce landfill.
The scrap glass comes in all shapes, sizes and colours and it’s always fun to see how these pieces come out as many types of fusing glass, known as Strikers, change colour completely when heated.
I love the element of chance and the vibrancy of the colours that I can use to create Christmas decorations and light catchers.