Grace Ayson

I have many favourite techniques, in particular glass painting and acid etching.

Q&A

What craft do you work with?

I work with glass – and in particular stained glass. I have been working with this medium for over 16 years. I have many favourite techniques, in particular glass painting and acid etching.

What inspires you to work with this craft?

I am inspired by light and colour, with line and form. This craft is important and to continue the craft in traditional and innovative contemporary ways. I have a deep respect for the traditional craft – I also like to create and be innovative in design and techniques to reach new audiences and promote the craft.

How do you start your creative process?

I start my creative process in varying ways, from collecting source reference materials and visuals, looking at art works and crafts from other disciplines, drawing on paper and exploring/experimenting with painting techniques and surface textures and details. The difficult part is finding enough time and materials/techniques to fully explore and complete the many ideas and projects I would like to do!

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

My work space is a room within a building and I have arranged it as an artists and glass studio, working with the space as best for me with my current glass practice. I could not do without a kiln and the many tools I need for glass painting and stained glass work.

Are there new techniques you would like to try?

I would like to try different techniques I have not yet explored in my work and experiment with their potential use in my glass work. Airbrushing, screen printing and sandblasting glass techniques will help expand and generate new ideas in my design and making new work.

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

To not be afraid of taking on new challenges, this can help in the development of your craft and makes you stronger and more confident for the next challenge. Try to stay true to yourself and your work. I also love collaborating with artists and craftsmen from all disciplines and materials, learning skills from each other and creating new ideas.