Christine Vanoppen

I see many similarities between 'glass' and how our human world works. Unstoppable time, overflowing emotions, ambiguous memory, language and communication, constantly changing body and mind and life itself.

Q&A

Artist Statement

My sculptural work is a delicate dialogue between the vulnerability of the object and the surrounding space in which it tries to find its place, it makes the viewer more aware of their time and space. Through my work I explore what lies between “existence” and “non-existence”. Using glass as a medium I hope to transform not only happiness and hope, but even sadness and pain into freedom and beauty. With a transparant open mind I hope to continue to absorb, grow, transform and create.

What craft do you work with?

My work is based on my childhood experience. As a child I grew up in a family of contractors, which made building, monumental architectural interests from an early age. I like to experiment and discover different materials and technique.

What inspires you to work with this craft?

Space, light, shadow

How do you start your creative process?

It is by searching for a translation of my designs into three-dimensional work that I have immersed myself in the technique of lamp working. The technique requires concentration and focus and the repetition makes it a form of meditation.

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

My workshop is a place of silence where I can focus and explore.

I always have pencil and paper at hand.

Are there new techniques you would like to try?

Welding or working with metal wire is on my wish list.

What have you learnt or the best advice you have received that you would like to share with fellow crafters?

“Art should be something that liberates the soul, provokes the imagination and encourages people to go further” Keith Haring

My dream is to make a large sculptural outdoor work or a large architectural work in collaboration with architect Peter Zumthor.