Peter Cummings Glass Artist

Glass Engraving

                                  covers a multitude of skills, methods, tools, and materials.  There has always been changes and improvement to the methods used, such as sandblasting to remove large areas of glass instead of dangerous acids. We now have computerised imaging and lasers, colour compatible material and industrial diamond tools.

History 

                          includes engraving as one of the earlier glass arts. The Roman Empire appreciated the practical and aesthetic values of glass and engraving flourished with outstanding levels of skill and artistic merit. A resurgent industry developed in central Europe to utilise the new clear glass and crystal around the 16th century.The classis revival period of the 18th century included making cameo glass to equal the roman artifacts that were so inspirational. Britain led the latest revival under Lawrence Whistler early in the 20th century, that includes a guild network that promotes engraved glass with exhibitions, classes, and books these days.

Artists

           debate the craft v's art issue continually. Engraving is a skill demanding practise, concentration and foreward thinking. A small inscription on a wine glass demands the skill set you can see on a hand carved tombstone. The font, size, placement,serifs and flourishes, as well as the detailed finishes such as edges, depth, and smoothness. Imagination and capturing a likeness, a mood or communicating an idea all come into a creative persons arsenal. Whatever the method, tools,or materials the end result will always depend on the skills of the artist to use all at their disposal to do the best that they can.

Glass Engraving has always been relevant to the times. Think of the classical revival and cameos of George Woodall, the "amen" glasses of the Scots, and the myriad of wedding celebrations.

For this reason this corner will continually change as new ideas form and new projects emerge.

Australia Day. 26 January.

Dry gum leaves and buds mean a lot to aussies, the day is usually hot, peak summer , and the smell of eucy is in the air. Hopefully not smoke. This piece probably shows my greatest influences. The bush I grew up in, Emile Galle and eastern ceramics.