Spotlight: Tracy Nicholls

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What craft do you work with? 

Kiln formed glass.

What are your inspirations? 

Much comes from microscopic images of disease, decay and erosion. The interplay with light within the forms is an important element which can add yet another layer. I shy away from glassy glass, using opaque black and white to express my ideas, using layers and textures to bring interest and depth to each piece.

How do you initiate your creative process? 

I’m not much of a sketcher so when I have an idea I either go straight in with the materials or plot out the design on thin fire paper and assemble in the kiln. I work pretty organically so nothing is set in stone before I start and opening the kiln is always a surprise!

How would you best describe your workspace and what tools could you not do without? 

Unorganised chaos!

There are probably three tools I would struggle without. The kiln is obviously the main one or there would be no work. The pendant drill and sandblaster are the other two. The pendant drill is multi-functional and allows me to grind, cut and shape my work and the sandblaster can transform my pieces instantly with the beautiful satin finish I can achieve. I don’t think any piece escapes the sand blaster, being either fully or partially sand blasted to contrast with the shine of kiln polish.

Are there new techniques or craft practices you would like to try or collaborate with?

I regularly bring other materials into my work and am continually enthralled by other practices and what can be achieved with different materials and how these materials could be incorporated into certain pieces.

What have you learnt that you would like to share with fellow crafters?

Don’t give up. It can be the most infuriating of materials but when everything works and surpasses all expectations it has all been worth it.

How would you like your practice to develop and what are your plans for the future?

Alongside my current practice and making new work I have just finished exhibiting at Collect and am following up on some opportunities that came from that. There is also a collaborative project in the pipeline for this year which I am very excited about.

 

Website: tracynicholls.co.uk

Instagram: tracy.nicholls.glass