News
You can view all the latest Glasstorm news and press coverage below.  18 March 2008GEORGINA COBURN welcomes a further extension of the visual arts potential at Eden Court
WHILE audiences will be accustomed to seeing framed works on the walls of Eden Court’s first and second floor foyers, this latest exhibition sees the creation of four new temporary works directly onto the walls. It is an exciting development and a good opportunity for audiences of all kinds to have exposure to contemporary work by Highlands and Islands based artists. Curator Sue Pirnie selected proposals from artists Caroline Dear, Nichola Burns, Rosie Newman and DUFI (a collaboration between artists Fin Macrae and Al McInnes) to use four walls as “canvases” with diverse and interesting results.
Skye-based artist Caroline Dear works in a wide variety of media including sculpture, installation, photography, artist’s books and basket making. Caroline studied architecture in Dublin and Hull, working both as an architect and landscape architect and this understanding of formal structure and design can be clearly seen in her work.
Since 1998 she has focused on her art practice, investigating “the balance and flow within nature” and “exploring our inner selves and outer physical landscape”. Her understanding of the environment is expressed through the use of natural raw materials such as grass, rush, heather and peat, a multilayered approach shifting between natural cycles of “growth and decay”.
This latest work, ‘Peat Markings’, leads the viewer ascending the main stairs of the theatre into a series of works that reflect the interior forms of the building and the external environment. The human act of “shaping the land” from the cutting of peat banks to the modern abstract of the bar code are echoed in her application of peat directly onto the wall, building mark and texture in a way that cleverly leads from one solid structural form to the next.
The progression between these three works is interesting, operating in a similar way to some of the artist’s natural photographic sequences. The final sequence of three is particularly effective utilising frames within frames. Subtly shifting our view and allowing it to surface and recede with the fine earthy textures of the peat, each field of vision is created with delicate and deliberate marks. The effect is optical and spatial but also psychological, reflecting the artist’s interest in inner and outer structures.
The initial work, a solid rail of peat which follows the level of the stairs, transforms into lines which accentuate vertical height and become progressively more fluid through the gradation of fine texture. Being able to appreciate the qualities of the natural material, we are also brought into a field of vision from solid formal dense lines to shifting frames of visual reference.
Although the reduction of aspects of landscape are highly formalised, not unlike Donald Urquhart’s approach on the exterior of Eden Court, here the artist suggests frame within frame experience of nature. This is experienced on a human scale and therefore on a personal level, suggesting a frame of reference that is as much about the natural environment as our own nature. Use of a material formed 5000 years ago sets up an interesting dialogue between material, the structural form within a built environment and the viewer. This work is as much a conceptual proposition as it is visual or tactile.
An accomplished glass artist, Nichola Burns trained in Switzerland, the Netherlands and the United States before establishing the studio Glasstorm in Tain with fellow glass artist Brodie Nairn. Her work includes installation, public art works, limited edition production pieces and one-off sculptural pieces which expand and explore the unique qualities of glass. This new work ‘The Journey’, combines the art of drawing with the fluid molten quality of clear glass in an energetic, delicate and complex pathway of threads and trails.
The composition intended to reflect in abstract terms the narrative “beginning, middle and end” of a “storyboard” or “musical score” links beautifully with experience and performance within the theatre. The whole piece, spread out over seven metres, has a symphonic quality to it, the apex of energy and visual focus in the centre also functioning in the same manner as a triptych.
Though colour is a strong element in the artist’s work, it is absent here, allowing the mark and material to speak for itself. The way that light catches the glass and creates shadow beneath the calligraphic flow of drawn marks is wonderfully expressive. It is great to see a drawing executed in this way and our expectations about the art of glass expanded as a result.
‘Take Off’ by Cromarty-based artist Rosie Newman explores “freedom and movement” in a series of joined panels of screen printed silk. Subtle tones and overlap give a natural sense of order to the flock of birds taking to the sky that is also random and asymmetrical. The shimmer of the material evokes the quality of light on the Black Isle.
However, this is somewhat masked by the hanging position, directly beneath the roof and creating shadow. There is the intention of physical movement here with the fluttering of the silk that is also hindered by the position. This is not in a part of the theatre where foot traffic or drafts can act on the work and so the image is more fixed than in flight.
A work that is right at home in this rooftop space is ‘Teenage Kicks’ by DUFI. In the shadowy light of the upper floor, complete with stripy carpet, their installation of kitsch lounge furniture and LP’s invites participation. The red glow of a 70’s lamp helps create a cosy interactive space in which to sit and contemplate the horrors lurking in your own record collection and relive memories of exactly where you were and what you were doing when that certain track was playing.
LP’s can be removed from the wall and played on the now aged (but not so old) stereo system, a wide selection of Elvis, Simon & Garfunkel, Michael Jackson, Blondie, Def Leppard, Johnny Cash, Scottish Metrical Psalms, Nana Mouskouri, Runrig, Marillion, U2, Disneyland Christmas Carols and The Sound of Music, among others.
In a world defined by technological upgrades it’s kind of nice to sit in a lounge chair with vinyl and laugh along (at yourself) with a work of art that doesn’t take itself too seriously. This is a really enjoyable piece of work – the “Family Health Doctor” book Q&A‘s on the coffee table are particularly amusing and who could resist choosing an LP off the wall to play on a real live turntable again, safe in the knowledge that with the headphones on no one else can hear that you were once secretly addicted to A-ha!
Ever present is the DUFI signature tag in rainbow colours and portraits of the duo in guerrilla-like gas masks on LP’s among the random hanging of vinyl on the wall. “A homage to the importance of music in graffiti culture and also the importance of music on their developmental years growing up in the Highlands and Canada,” this piece strikes a universal chord. Nostalgic and upbeat in equal measure, ‘Teenage Kicks’ will bring you into contact with long forgotten memories and make you smile.
Accomplished artists in their own right, photographer Fin Macrae and graphic designer Al McInnes have collaborated on a number of public artworks using image and text as part of Inverness Old Town redevelopment. They have also worked on community projects using stencil graffiti in Mallaig, Brora, Fort William, Alness and Scourie, and provided backdrops for the goNorth stage at Rock Ness. It is interesting to see aspects of their streetwork presented as installation here on a personal scale with their trademark energy and humour.
It is great to see greater latitude given to Visual Arts in the new Eden Court building through the exhibition programme and I hope that this approach can be built on in the future to include other spaces throughout the complex. There is still much work to be done in the Highland capital to develop spaces to see a range of contemporary Visual Arts and in this respect the new Eden Court has a potentially significant role to play.
While navigation of the community and public art elements within the building are challenging, it is fantastic to see professional artists in the Highlands starting to be seen with regularity in a central location in Inverness. I hope that a Wall Works exhibition will become an annual event on the city’s exhibition calander, promoting professional practice and development by allowing artists to step outside their practice and push the boundaries of their chosen medium in a public space.
© Georgina Coburn, 2008
 29 February 2008In February of this year Brodie was asked to be a guest speaker at the Flowerfield Art Centre, Portstewart , Northern Ireland alongside Caroline Madden, Scott Benefield and Ulster Museum's curator Kim Mawhinney.
The seminar chaired by Joe Kelly, director of Craft Northern Ireland was well attended by practising artists, designers,students and educational and creative industries development groups and was co-ordinated by the centres director Malcom Murchison. The event was part of a programme of events scheduled to stimulate the current glass movement in Norhern Ireland and the Republic including glass kiln fusing workshops by Andrea Spencer and an accompanying exhibition of both contemporary and antique glass.  01 February 2008UNIQUE DISPLAY - Goodhomes February 2008 p.41 / DECORATING
Glass Bowls - by Glasstorm
'A great alternative to candles or books, a display of sleek bowls on your coffee table makes a fantastic focus point.'
 05 December 2007Cridhe na Gaidhealtachd / A Highland Craft Showcase
Presiding Officer, Alex Fergusson MSP launched a celebratory exhibition of Highland Crafts at the Scottish Parliament Buildings, Edinburgh on Wednesday 5th December 2007.
"The Parliiament is proud to host this important exhibtion, which celvbrates the culture of the Highlands and the talent of its craft makers"
The new exhibition developed in partnership with Highland 2007 and Highland Council celebrates Scotland's year of Highland culture. The exhibition showcased some of the most talented and respected Highland based craft makers including the collaborative range of works by Brodie Nairn & Nicola Burns and their beautiful glass chair and footstool. The exhibtion displays a range of crafts, which make use of traditional techniques and materials in innovative ways to produce items that express Highland culture today.
Brodie attended the launch in Edinburgh and his interview can be found alongside other exhibitor makers Sandra Murray, Lucy Woodley and Laura West using the following link. http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/vli/visitingHolyrood/exhibitions_previous.htm
The public have an opportunity to see this free exhibtions which extends until Sunday 6 January. 30 November 2007The Glasstorm celebrates its second year in Tain by launching an exciting new Christmas exhibition as well as inviting Spanish glassmaker Ramon Beaskoetxea and recent Irish graduate Valerie MacHugh to captivate visitors with an excellent show of glassmaking skills.
 16 November 2007WE are delighted to have been to asked to take part in the Museum of Scotland 'Gifted' exhibition for the second year. This buying exhibiton is an exciting opportunity to not only see new works made here at the GLASSTORM Studio but to see works by other makers in a beautiful location.
Thanks once again to the exhibition team at the museum in particular curator Rose Watban for once again curating this show which is assured to be one of the most beautiful christmas shows this year.
Below is review of the show by craftscotland - http://www.craftscotland.org/default.aspx.locid-cftnewk7v.htm
Scottish Designers Star at Gifted 2007 -
Gifted, a selling exhibition with limited edition work which offers the chance to admire the skill and imagination of over 30 Scottish designers, has opened at the National Museum of Scotland.
From silk scarves to silver jewellery and handbags to hand-painted ceramics, this exhibition also offers the chance to purchase the work on show, with prices starting at £2.50.
A range of gifts for men include with copper and driftwood boxes by Mette Fruergaard-Jensen, painted silk ties by Alison Bell, and silver shot glasses and pill boxes designed by silversmith Marion Kane. For a traditional present with an individual touch, Nicola Morrison and Christina Hirst have each designed cufflinks in textured silver.
Bag lovers will not be disappointed, with items including coin purses by Marceline Smith, silk ballet purses by Sheila Hallett, and Harris Tweed handbags and bow clutch bags by Katherine Emtage. The textile theme carries through to landscape-inspired scarves and hats by Hume Sweet Hume, throws and men’s scarves by Yungi and hand printed tea-towels, cushions and aprons by Digitata.
This year there is also an opportunity to buy items made by the winners of the Jerwood Applied Arts Prize 2007: Jewellery, an exhibition which is also showing at the National Museum of Scotland until 2 March 2008. A selection of pieces by the six short-listed artists, who include Scottish artists Susan Cross and Grainne Morton, are available.
Other jewellery featured includes acrylic and silver rings and bangles by Ruth Gordon, plaited paper string necklaces and hand-knitted wristlets by Anna King, and felt tip earrings by Laura Murray. Lisa Rae Hansen offers a unique concept in jewellery – sculptures with detachable sections, such as Grey Stripy Zebra, which features a removable pendant.
For around the home there are hand-built stoneware vases by Maggie Broadley, tea lights and decorative tiles by Campbell Firth, and blown glass oil lamps and bowls by Elin Isaksson. Ceramics feature strongly with a range of homeware by Clare Dawdry, ceramic plant sculptures by Lorna Fraser and hearts by Jane Woodford of Kira Kira Ceramics.
Other exhibitors include Hannah Ayre, Lise Bech, Ruth Chalmers, Phillipa Crawford, Julia Cunningham, Genna Delaney, Mary Fraser, Yvonne Gilhooly, Glasstorm, Global Guru, Into, Sarah Johnston, Bryony Knox, Inge Panneels @ IDAGOS, Suzanne Smith and Caroline Temple.
The exhibition is on from 16 November 2007 to 6 January 2008 in the Crafts Gallery, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh. Open daily from 10am to 5pm. Admission free.
 04 October 2007We are proud to show our works at this years ORIGIN show. Please see below general information on the show as well as an article published in both print and on the Scottish ArtsCouncil website and the craftscotland website.
http://www.craftscotland.org/origin2007.html
Origin: The London Craft Fair, was launched in 2006, replacing the Chelsea Crafts Fair as the UK’s principal selling event for individual designer-makers. In 2007 there were more than 20,000 visits to Origin and the event attracted 316 exhibitors across two weeks.
Somerset House is a thriving cultural destination in London. The magnificent 18th century building houses the celebrated collection of the Courtauld Institute of Art, providing the perfect venue for a contemporary craft fair. The location is easy to reach by public transport and is close to the retail areas of Covent Garden and London’s vibrant theatre district.
Origin is a presentation of the very best of craft talent, be it ceramics, glass, metal, jewellery, furniture, textiles, paper and wood. Exhibitors are a mixture of national and international designermakers, established names and emerging talent and each stand at the event exhibits work of a consistently high standard and demonstrates creativity and technical skill.
Origin is housed in a purpose built pavilion designed by Ben Kelly and is erected in the Edward J. Safra Courtyard of Somerset House. The pavilion is designed to complement its content with transparent panels which fill the space with light.
23 of Scotland’s top makers invited to showcase their talent at Origin 2007 -
Issued by: Scottish Arts Council
Twenty three of Scotland’s talented craft makers will join over 300 designer-makers in London next month to showcase their work to an international audience of buyers, curators and craft collectors at Origin: The London Craft Fair.
Eight of the Scottish based makers will be exhibiting at the event for the first time and will receive support from the Scottish Arts Council to attend the event, as part of the organisation’s commitment to supporting artists in Scotland to fulfil their creative and business potential.
Among the first time exhibitors are glass artists Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns who run Glasstorm, a contemporary glass studio and Gallery in Tain where they use their knowledge of Scandinavian and Italian glass making techniques to make limited edition production pieces, individual one off glass art works, installations and public art works.
Commenting on being selected to exhibit at this year’s event Nichola Burns of Glasstorm said: ‘After only fairly recently moving back to the UK and setting up our glassblowing studio in 2005 we are fully aware of the impact potential that the Origin show could have in raising our profile in the UK market and creating new opportunities.
‘We are delighted to in some way represent the very best of Scottish and in particular Highland craft and we think it is important that Scottish based makers promote the buoyancy in the Scottish craft and art market on a national and international level’.
Other Scottish makers attending the event include artist and basketmaker Lizzie Farey who received Grand Designs Magazine’s ‘Best in Show’ rosette at last year’s Origin and designer Johanna Basford whose unique hand printed wallpapers have been featured in Elle Decoration magazine, The Guardian and as part of the DKNY and Wallpaper New Designers Showcase in the company’s flagship Bond Street Store during London Fashion Week in 2005.
Origin is a new contemporary event showcasing some of the finest handmade contemporary craft and applied arts which was launched last year to replace the Chelsea Craft Fair. The inaugural event attracted over 22,000 visitors to London’s Somerset House.
Helen Bennett, Head of Crafts at the Scottish Arts Council said: ‘Origin, which attracts an international audience, is one of the highlights of the crafts calendar. Given the quality of contemporary craftwork produced here it is a pleasure, but not a surprise that once again there is a strong Scottish presence at the show. We are particularly glad to have been able assist the 8 Scottish makers selected to exhibit for for the first time to take advantage of this significant opportunity to test the market and develop their contacts.’
Origin Welcomes Scottish Designers - issued by craftscotland
Origin: The London Craft Fair, taking place in London from 2 to 14 October 2008, brings together over 300 of the most innovative designer-makers in the UK, including 23 Scottish makers.
During the event over 22,000 people visit the event to meet the makers and buy their work which includes glass, ceramics, jewellery, metal, furniture, paper, baskets, wood and textiles.
Eight of the Scottish based makers are exhibiting at the event for the first time and have received support from the Scottish Arts Council to attend the event.
Among the first time exhibitors are glass artists Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns who run Glasstorm, a contemporary glass studio and Gallery in Tain. Commenting on being selected to exhibit at this year’s event Nichola Burns of Glasstorm said “We are delighted to in some way represent the very best of Scottish work and in particular Highland craft, we think it is important that Scottish based makers promote the buoyancy in the Scottish craft and art market on a national and international level”.
During the first week (2 to 7 October) Scotland will be represented by willow weaver Lizzie Farey, jeweller Sarah Keay, textile designer, ceramicist Andrea Walsh and textile designers Fiona McIntosh of Tessuti and Andrea Williamson. Sarah is exhibiting for the first time, and so is Andrea, who is based on Shetland, and will be showing her range of knitted fashion and home accessories.
In week two (9 to 14 October) visitors can see wallpaper by Johanna Basford, glass by Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns of Glasstorm, silver by Shimara Carlow, Sarah Hutchison and Jiyeon Hyon, ceramics by Craig Mitchell, felt cushions and accessories by Sarah Campbell of Mogwaii, fashion accessories by Tait + Style, knitwear by Jeong-Eun Lee Eedal and jewellery by Emma Gale, Yvonne Gilhooly, Grace Girvan, Emma Kinnell, Hannah Louise Lamb, Alison Macleod, Kaz Robertson and Dot Sim. Jeong-Eun, Yvonne, Sarah and Emma are all first time exhibitors.
Origin, organised by the Crafts Council, is a new contemporary event which was launched last year at London’s Somerset House to replace Chelsea Craft Fair. It is being held at Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA and tickets cost £8. Open Tuesday to Friday 11am to 7pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm, late night Thursday to 9pm. Find our more at www.craftscouncil.org.uk/origin
 13 May 2007Glass artist Nichola Burns exhibits her unique art works in glass at the Panik Gallery in Killearn. The Tain based glass maker shows a collection of her new sculptural works which are influenced by her interest in tribal garments and adornment.
Sunday 13th May until Sunday 24th June 2007
Open 10am-5.30pm weekdays and 11am - 5pm weekends
Panik Gallery - 13 Main Street, Killearn, Stirlingshire G63 9RJ tel 01360 551166 12 May 2007Taking highland 2007 as inspiration, designers have produced work that reflects what is happening in Highland and Scottish design to create an innovative and very contemporary interpretation of traditional and non-traditional work from furniture to glass, textiles to ceramics.
In association with the Highland Council Exhibitions Unit
Admission: Free
Venue Details:
IMAG
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Castle Wynd
Inverness
Inverness-shire
IV2 3EB
01463 237 114 12 May 2007Exhibition
This One Feels Just Right celebrates our affectionate relationship with that household favourite — the chair. In the spirit of Goldilocks, try out a unique array of chairs that lead you along a meandering, magical trail. Visitors are invited to describe their responses; specifically which one ‘feels just right’ to them.
In association with the Highland Council Exhibitions Unit
Venue Details:
IMAG
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Castle Wynd
Inverness
Inverness-shire
IV2 3EB
01463 237 114
Below is a review of the exhibition.
HOMEROOM / THIS ONE FEELS JUST RIGHT
GEORGINA COBURN finds an impressive level of craft-work squeezed into too constricted a space at IMAG
LINKED TO the Six Cities Design Festival, ‘Homeroom’ and ‘This One Feels Just Right’ contain some fantastic examples of the quality and innovation in design that sit comfortably on an international stage.
‘Homeroom’ draws its inspiration from the golden broom tartan designed by students at Mulbie Primary School and official tartan of Highland 2007. Interpretation of the brief has been extremely broad and contains a mix of specially commissioned pieces and works on loan from artists who have taken part in the Highland Council Exhibition’s Unit’s contemporary craft projects.
Skye based artist Caroline Dear has constructed a beautiful weft moss wall-hanging of incredible delicacy, intended to breathe when airflow triggers movement. The piece echoes the traditional width of 27 inches woven by hand in the production of tartan and tweed in the Highlands and Islands.
The work is organic in terms of its materials and the suggestion of cells in the weave but also a satisfying abstract. Hung slightly out from the wall it casts a secondary shadow of threads. The way in which natural materials are explored with reverence to create contemporary works of art is typical of Dear’s practice. She consistently expands our perception of traditional skills and interpretation of landscape.
Daniel Kavanagh’s ‘Core Liath’ bowl is a contrast of light, texture and play of materials in bronze and ceramic. An innovative and accomplished piece of craftsmanship, Kavanagh’s bowl sits comfortably adjacent to Paul Topen’s stunning chair constructed from jesmonite and iron filings.
It is a functional object that is sculptural and beautifully formed. The piece was created as part of the artist’s residency at Ullapool and Gairloch High Schools as part of the Exhibition Unit’s Craft Residencies in the Highlands Project.
Alastair Mackay’s wooden screen constructed from thin slices of perfectly patterned wood grain fit together like a natural skin or fish scales. Gold under-painting beneath the leather strung construction adds a subtle sheen, and the reverse of the screen reads like waves, heightening our experience and appreciation of the original material.
Another interpretation of the screen is Malcolm Mack’s constructions of wind-blown beech. Taking inspiration from Highland mountain contour maps, the irregular lines form a compelling and aesthetically pleasing vision of a material which is usually discarded or burnt for fire wood.
Linda Soos‘s work as a textile artist is firmly rooted in respect for the natural world and a deep understanding of raw materials. ‘Oak’, a hand-woven wool wall-hanging created with natural dyes and raku clay reads like a geometric core of earth. Layers of weave, colour and pattern result in a thoroughly contemporary work with echoes of ancient knowledge about our unique environment.
Brodie Nairn and Nicola Burns of Glasstorm studio and gallery in Tain have contributed to the ‘Homeroom’ and the adjoining ‘This One Feels Just Right’ exhibition with their trademark blend of style, elegance and pushing the boundaries of what we expect from the material.
In ‘Homeroom’ this finds expression in two light fittings of brushed stainless steel and clear blown glass. Like a colony of plant life or sea creatures, each hand made pod is designed to capture light and movement.
Glasstorm’s contribution to ‘This One Feels Just Right’, an exhibition of specially commissioned chairs by Highlands and Islands artists and makers, challenges our expectations about the use of glass and its natural properties.
The ‘Cluasag Chair’, constructed in metal and silvery frosted and textured glass, looks as if you could sink into a soft jelly-like material. Instead it is cool and hard, an indoor suggestion of comfort which would be more at home outdoors.
In anticipation of the star’s arrival in Inverness for a concert at the Caledonian Stadium, Sarah Barnes has created ‘Elton John’s Chair’, surrounded by memorabilia. Adorned with images and song lyrics and constructed in papier-mâché, the statement is as flamboyant as the entertainer.
Cromarty artist Rosie Jones Newman has contributed several chairs to the exhibition in a range of materials including a sticky ‘Sweetie Chair’, a ‘Moss Chair’ with background projections of running water, and the whimsical ‘Air Chair’. This lofty construction adorned with butterflies is as surreal as Alice’s trip to wonderland and guaranteed to make you smile.
Orkney designers Helga Tait, Fraser Anderson, Keith Colsell and Neil Gillon have collaborated on ‘Felt Just Right’, a modern take on a traditional design classic of the Orkney chair. Cleverly incorporating textiles into the original construction, the design contrasts wood, weave and softer textures of felt and wool that invites the audience to sit.
John McGeoch’s ‘Neptune’s Throne’ was the most mesmerising piece on display due to its accompanying soundtrack of crashing waves and the ambience of projected images and light underwater.
A large construction of found driftwood the dark silhouette of this work gains its own presence as a living piece of sculpture through projection. The artist’s company Arts In Motion regularly collaborates with theatre, dance and new media productions and the range of this experience is present in ‘Neptune’s Chair’ which stands equally on its own as a functional and imaginative creation. Hopefully it will find a home outdoors in a suitable setting following the exhibition.
Every exhibition staged at IMAG just adds weight to the argument for a new gallery space (with emphasis on the word space!), and these two exhibitions are no exception.
The context in which work is showcased is a reflection of its value, and until we move from a room to a new building an exhibition showcasing the best in Scottish design will not equal the vision of its makers.
Perhaps the Six Cities Festival will help focus attention on the need for regular access to contemporary work and contribute to the momentum behind the future development of a main public gallery space. As these two exhibitions demonstrate, our contemporary craft makers and artists deserve a purpose built venue and permanent presence as the city continues to evolve.
© Georgina Coburn, 2007
 17 April 2007THE RADIO CAFÉ - BBC Radio Scotland : Tuesday, April 17th (13:15 – 14:00)
Clare English with the latest cultural news from home and abroad, covering film, fashion, books and theatre.
Brodie Nairn talke to Clare English about the Glasstorm Studio and Tain’s creative community.  17 March 2007Glass Works of both Brodie Nairn & Nichola Burns selected to participate in the annual Visual Arts Scotland Open Exhibition
VISUAL ARTS SCOTLAND OPEN EXHIBITION of Visual & Applied Arts
Saturday 17th March – Thursday 12th April 2007
Royal Scottish Academy
The Mound, Edinburgh
The only multi-disciplinary platform – where painters, sculptors, jewellers, textile, stone & woodwork artists exhibit together
Admission £4
Concession £2  25 February 2007Scotland on Sunday atHome Magazine p.25
IN THE CLEAR by Claire Hay
Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns’ passion for glass led the creative due to join forces and set up Glasstorm, a contemporary glassblowing studio in Tain.
Having studied their art and taken apprenticeships around Europe and the US, the two decided to return to Scotland to produce limited-edition pieces, one-off art glass works, installations and public artworks.
Their very different styles complement each other: Burns’ energetic and exuberant sculptural works; and Nairn’s more minimal sensuous pieces. Glasstorm also offers introductory glassblowing workshops.  10 November 2006The weekend of the 10th and 11th of November 2006 saw GLASSTORM owners Brodie Nairn & Nichola Burns celebrate their first year of being open. With just under 200 visitors passing through, the Studio was a hive of activity. Guest artists Ingrid Philips and Tim Waldergrave gave thrilling demonstartions and assisted in the Glass Tile event for children on the saturday.
Brodie and Nichola's thanks also go to, Karen Davies (Whaligoe Steps Cafe & Catering) Stephen Ross, Lucy Hogben and Laine Porter.  09 September 2006GLASS DESIGNER BRODIE NAIRN TO SHOWCASE WORK AT TOP SCOTTISH DESIGN VENUE.
Highland based Designer-maker, Brodie Nairn has been invited to exhibit his work as one of the featured artists at this year’s Home & Interiors Scotland Exhibition which will take place at the SECC in Glasgow on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September.
Brodie, from Tain, specialises in designing in glass and will form part of craftscotland’s display within the show.
craftscotland aims to provide an international showcase for the quality and variety of Scottish craft available and this is the first time that this organisation has exhibited.
Brodie set up Glasstorm, a contemporary glass studio and gallery in Tain with glass artist Nichola Burns. An exhibition of his work opens there in October and additionally the Glasstorm range will be showcased at Form in The Lighthouse in Glasgow in August this year and in 'gifted' at the Royal Museum in Edinburgh from November 2006.
Over 100 exhibitors are taking part in this year’s Homes & Interiors Scotland Exhibition along with a number of key attractions including an interesting mix of free interior related talks within the Design Theatre, sponsored by Cala Homes; free architectural consultations, sponsored by Vitra; demonstrations from expert designers and makers; the Gallery Bizarre displaying weird and wonderful new interior products and an exclusive auction of clocks designed by artists and celebrities in aid of Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centres.
“The exhibition provides a great opportunity for Brodie to not only display his work to over 10,000 visitors but also to raise the awareness of Scottish craft in general. This combined with the very best Scottish interiors and design companies and a number of quality attractions provides the perfect ingredients for a fantastic event for anyone interested in interiors and design,” said Sandra Colamartino of Homes & Interiors Scotland Exhibition.
Funded by the Scottish Arts Council, craftscotland creates a vital link between individual makers and potential buyers. The website, www.craftscotland.org, provides an online directory of Scottish makers and craft outlets.
http://www.craftscotland.org/craftfocus_homesandinteriors.html
http://www.craftscotland.org/craftscotlandhomesinteriorsexhibition.html 01 September 2006Newformations Autumn Show, The Lighthouse, Glasgow 1st Sep – 29th October 2006
Stunning hand crafted bowls and vases by creative duo Brodie Nairn & Nichola Burns.
Show runs from 1st Sep –29th October 2006  06 June 2006Exhibition Details
Brodie Nairn
Tuesday 6 June 2006 - Sunday 30 July 2006
DCA Shop
Brodie Nairn is a glassmaker who is based in Tain. He makes simple pure forms which let the characteristics of the glass shine through. Constantly striving to capture true form and balance, his work is often described as having sensual line with underlying tension.  01 June 2006Collins Gallery, Glasgow 1st July – 12 August 2006
The Scottish Glass Society Exhibition 2006 at the Collins Gallery, Glasgow shows a diverse and vibrant selection of works including blown work by Brodie Nairn & Nichola Burns  01 April 2006Home Plus Scotland Magazine Mar/Apr 2006 p.36 & p.37
ALL FIRED UP –Glass designers and makers, Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns have recently returned to the Scottish Highlands to set up their company Glasstorm and they’re proving to be hot property - written by Nichola Hunter
Brodie and Nichola met at university and after touring the world together to perfect their glass making and glass blowing skills they’ve now returned to their native Scotland to open their very own “hot shop” and gallery.
They took on what they describe as “a dirty old garage” in Tain last June and have spent the months since converting it into a glass making workshop and gallery. They built most of the equipment and the studio space themselves so that it would fit their needs exactly and although the transformation of this space alone is impressive, equally so, is the amount of work they’ve created in this short space of time.
The gallery area has been kept simple and white – the best backdrop for their beautiful glass creations. This ensures that their pieces can be seen in their true colours and without any fussiness. “Nicky and I are both big on colour,” says Brodie. “So it’s important for us to be able to show our work as we think it should be seen.”
Next door to the gallery is the ‘hot shop’ where the creative juices along with an average of 45 kilos of molten glass flow every week. “There are three different ways to make studio glass,” says Brodie “And we’ve tried them all during our apprenticeships. You can make your own from raw materials, which is again still quite a dusty process. Or you can use brand new glass which is really clean and all you’re actually doing is reheating it.” Brodie and Nichola decided this was their chosen method and as such have invested heavily in a special furnace which initially came from Denmark and is only three in the country.
This furnace is very high tech but the couple decided the outlay was worth it to produce the kind of work that they wanted to and to build on the Glasstorm name.
Glasstorm incorporates three different aspects. There’s Glasstorm design which consists of limited edition productions such as their signature Glasstorm bowl – a beautiful contemporary bowl with an edge that almost glows. These pieces are all signed and of course, all unique as every pieces is handmade. This range also incorporates vases, plates and candles holders. These pieces are sold from the Glasstorm gallery and also through select shops and galleries throughout the country. Nichola and Brodie aim to try and keep prices in this range under the £100 mark.
The second part of Glasstorm is Nichola and Brodie’s individual creations. Their styles are very different and whereas Brodie chooses to let the characteristics of the glass shine through simple pure forms Nichola’s pieces are very sculptural. They’re also labour intensive and sometimes require the help of four assistants to actually make the pieces in the hot shop. Brodie adds: “Nicky’s pieces are very involved. Glass doesn’t wait for you – if you stop turning you end up with a puddle on the floor.” It’s only when you actually see Nichola and Brodie in action that you realise quite how true this comment is. Whoever is the predominant creator of each piece of work is in charge in the hot shop. Which basically means, when they shout you jump!
To an observer, it initially seems a little harsh but Nichola and Brodie have been working together for a long time and they slip seamlessly into whatever role they’re expected to play depending on what they’re working on.
The third part of the company deals with private commissions which both Brodie and Nichola are happy to take on.
As if this wasn’t enough for a young company to deal with, the couple are also starting to host glass making classes as Nichola explains: We want to offer a glass making experience to every man in the street, people who’d never think of trying it.” Brodie adds: “Our aim will be to make sure that everyone goes home at the end of the day or weekend with a piece of glass work that they have made themselves.” This could be quite a challenge but with their combined experience and belief that everyone should have a go, I think Nichola and Brodie will achieve this and all their other goals.  01 February 2006Homes & Interiors Scotland, issue 45 End Feb p.63 and p.64
PERFECTLY CLEAR - Glasstorms exquisite designs inject a brilliantly contemporary edge to an ancient art form by Fiona Armstrong
To enjoy the creative process in as inspiring environment was a shared goal for glassmakers Brodie Nairn and Nicky Burns. Now they’re living their dream. The pair, who are partners in a personal and a business sense, opened Glasstorm last year in the Highland town of Tain. And as well as being a working studio with state-of-the-art facilities that other makers can hire, Glasstorm doubles up as a gallery where Nicky and Brodie show work they have created individually and, for the Glasstorm range, collaboratively.
The pair first met at Gray’s School of Art in Aberdeen and then went on to attend the International Glass Centre at Brierley Hill in the West Midlands. Intrigued by traditional glassblowing techniques Brodie then travelled to Europe and America as apprentice to master glassmakers, while Nicky embarked on her own journey of discovery, assisting esteemed American glass artist Toots Zynsky in Amsterdam and later in America. Initially, Nicky concentrated on painting on glass with enamels but while she was travelling, access to the facilities she required – especially kilns – was limited and her focus shifted to glass blowing.
“It’s a thrilling process,” says Nicky. “Often up to four people are involved; one person blowing, while another directs and shapes the form, applying colours prepared by assistants. It’s high-adrenalin teamwork, with everyone willing the piece to end safely.” And, as Nicky reveals, “Each form has its own story to tell.” Brodie, meanwhile, sums up the material’s appeal. “Glass is illusive,” he says. “It can be dark and mysterious or colourful and radiant, hard and sharp or soft and smooth.” It is this complexity married with the purity of the finished forms that makes glass such a fascinating material for artists to work with.
Having arrived in the Highlands in 2002 to work on others’ creative projects, Brodie and Nicky started considering the possibilities of establishing an arts-based business of their own. Eventually they reached a point where they felt they had the knowledge and technical know-how to follow their own dream, rather than just simply fuel someone else’s.
Now, with the studio up and running, Nicky and Brodie are currently devoting all their energies to their art. Each has their own distinctive style. Brodie creates undulating forms that are inspired by everything from the human body to “sunlight bouncing off the cracks on a frozen loch”. His pieces play with light, they’re highly polished elliptical forms, and precisely defined edges, designed to deflect it in the most masterful way. “Glass eats light but also empowers it,” he explains.
By contrast Nicky’s pieces are softer, more organic and, she reveals, “inspired by moments in time – from seeing a small fire burn in the night to watching ink disperse in water”. Nicky captures these moments of beauty, the sense of movement and feeling, through multiple layers. Glass is pulled, tweezed and willed to move in various directions at once, while colour, whether blended or magnified by clear strands – is key.
Instinctively in tune with what the other finds aesthetically pleasing, Nicky and Brodie’s individual approaches are pleasingly combined in the Glasstorm collection. “It’s about capturing elegance, whether in a simple line, colour-range or form,” explains Nicky.
The creative process is also buoyed by the fact that there is always something different going on at the Glasstorm Highland studios, whether the pair are immersed in the creative process, teaching beginners, or welcoming visitors to the gallery. “Being able to create is a joy.” Confirms Brodie, “and it’s reassuring to be aware just how much we love what we do.”  19 November 2005The Herald, Weekend Living Magazine, Sat Nov 19th 2005, p.8 & p.9
BREAK WITH TRADITION - Modern artisans are shattering the fragile image of glass and becoming creative with bold colours and sensual forms. By Jennifer Harper
I couldn’t resist when I saw two glass vases beautifully twisted out of shape – I bought them. I’ll never put flowers in them, though – the exotic forms and monochrome tones are bold enough statements on their own. Whether they love them or hate them, every visitor I have comments on their presence.
This is 21st- Century glass, the modern “craft” accessory that is adding finishing touches to homes up and down the country. A long way from the old clear, cut-glass vases and rose bowls treasured by our grannies, this glassware is cutting edge, with vibrant tones and intriguing shapes. The exciting way in which artists are now using the material has found many more people snapping up sculptural pieces as alternative artworks for the home.
To Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns, this recognition is not surprising. Indeed, it’s long overdue. The couple, who met while studying fine art at Gray’s School of Art, Aberdeen, both went on to train as glass blowers at the International Glass Centre, in the West Midlands. For the past 10 years, they have worked with some of the world’s top glass artists, fine-tuning their own skills along the way. Now they have returned to Scotland to launch a studio and gallery in Tain, in the Highlands.
“We have been working within the contemporary glass movement for more than a decade, but there is no doubt in my mind that glass as a material and as a medium is very hot at the moment,” says Brodie. “Our work looks great in our gallery but it looks just as good in a penthouse suite or filled with flowers, in a homely environment. There are so many different ways to display. We have non-functional cut pieces that are bought by collectors as well as regular customers. Some have used them as unique fruit bowls while others simply appreciate them as artwork.” He adds: “Glass has always been fashionable, but the contemporary movement is very new if you compare it with other art processes. Glass was traditionally made in factories, but in the 1950s someone came up with the idea of having a little furnace and running it out of their garden shed. That was the start of the studio glass movement. Now people in workshops all over the world are experimenting and pushing the boundaries.”
Both Brodie and Nichola have stretched those barriers to the extreme, creating collections that cover a variety of price ranges and tastes. Brodie’s work features everything from vases, lamps and bowls to non-functional pieces, all with the same fluid, sensual shapes. He has experienced with colour as well as finishing, offering softly muted tones punctuated by splashes of red or yellow. Some of his pieces mimic polished metal, while others combine a variety of glorious shades to create chaotic scenes. At the moment, Nichola is very inspired by her Ross-shire surroundings, in particular by her close proximity to the sea. She tries to capture transient moments of wonder in a permanent state through glass. Having initially trained as a painter, her work is naturally bursting with colour. “Living close to the sea has been a huge influence,” she says. “My designs have started to take that on and I am working on representing water and waves. I am essentially trying to capture a moment in time – it might be flames, the effect of an ink droplet in water, just something that I have seen and that has registered with me. We all have times when we see something and wish we has a camera to record it – I am just trying to capture those moments in glass.”
The couple returned to Scotland from Holland three years ago when Brodie took up the post of technical manager with the Caithness-based North Lands Creative Glass centre and Nichola became Highland Council’s cultural co-ordinator for Caithness and Sutherland. But they always had it in mind to eventually open their own studio and gallery, an ambition that they realised last month.
Their Glasstorm gallery is the latest in a series of cultural and artistic businesses recently set up in Tain. In the airy, state-of-the-art studio, visitors can enjoy the pieces in a relaxed setting, while they meet the artists and see them at work. “An elderly couple who were here on holiday came into the gallery. They liked two small vases, but one liked the blue and the other liked the green. In the end they took both,” says Brodie. “They came back and bought another six vases over the course of the week. We were able to give them a demonstration of how we made the pieces and they were delighted. The whole experience was satisfying all round.”
Brodie and Nichola’s work varies in price from £30 to around £550. Everything they make is work that they enjoy living with in their own home. “It’s a lifestyle thing,” says Nichola. “The studio is really an extension of us – all the pieces we make and sell are things that we have designed for ourselves. Things like the £30 posy vases – if you have a bouquet and a flower breaks off, just put it in the vase so you can still enjoy it. There is nothing daunting about our work. These are pieces that do their function, are simple but also unique and made for people to enjoy.” She adds: “When I was a child, I was always aware that crystal glass was the ‘good’ stuff that was only brought out for special occasions. We are trying to take a bit of that preciousness away. Glass is not quite as fragile as people think. We create pieces that are tactile so people can enjoy touching and turning them around.” This new philosophy has certainly not been lost on the design-aware public. Natalie Atkinson, manager of the Just Scottish gallery on the Mound in Edinburgh, is very aware of the rise and rise of glass as an alternative artform. “There is a definite renewed interest in glass,” she says. “People were wary before because they feared it would break easily but they now realise that ii is not necessarily the case. Glass is amazing. Simply by putting it under light, it changes the mood and you capture people’s imagination in an instant. It is not taking over from ceramics but it is up beside it now because it is very effective material.”  15 October 2005We were both delighted that the launch of the studio was a great success with many old and new faces joining us.
Special thanks to those friends who travelled far & volunteered their time; Karen Davies (best chef in the north) of Whaligoe Steps Cafe, Caithness, our glassmaking friends Ingrid Phillips & Hannah Facey (who kindly demonstrated glassblowing in front of an enthusastic crowd), Craig Rennie for photography and more, John & Lynda Usher-Davis, Nadine Haberthuer & Lucy Hogben in making sure all were fed & watered.
09 September 2010 ~ View Current News
|
