Heather Cuell, glass artisan
Born in Australia in 1964, I grew up surfing, snorkeling and exploring the sand dunes along the coast of Queensland. Like many Aussies, I had a desire to see the world and in 1986 left Australia to travel. Arriving in Canada I fell in love with the Rocky Mountains and settled into a wonderful lifestyle: I have biked many trails, hiked rugged terrain and skied some of the best powder on the mountain. On these forays I am always moved by nature's subtle but powerful attributes.
I strive to translate the gifts of nature in my work. The earth's rich textures of rock, land and sea inspire me to create art in glass, evoking emotion and energy. I do this by layering glass to create shapes with texture and explore the many nuances of color.
Using a kiln as a tool, the glass is heated up to 1650 degrees, at these temperatures glass changes causing it to soften or flow. Fusing is the process of heating pieces of glass together to form one. Slumping and casting is the shaping of a piece of glass through the use of a mold. The sheer process of fusing and slumping transparent and opaque glass creates movement and energy in each piece. The scale of my work ranges from small tiles to feature walls.
I started working with glass in 2001 and have been consumed with its creative abilities. My education ranges from a long business career to studies at Alberta College of Art and Design, courses and training with international glass artisans. I stay actively involved in continuing education for kiln formed glass through workshops, seminars and colleagues.
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