Linda Norris

In my work I am interested in exploring the genius loci of landscape. My work investigates aspects of the culture, language, science, archaeology and ecology underpinning the landscape and our legacy in the context of the anthropocene. I have a multi-disciplinary practice. I worked for 30 years as a landscape painter and in recent years have become interested in the dichotomies which arise when making contemporary artwork using traditional methods. As a result, my practice embraces a range of traditional techniques including glass and ceramic.

Q&A

What craft do you work with?

I have a multi-disciplinary practice. I worked for 30 years as a landscape painter and began working in glass ten years ago. I have won several prizes for my work including the international Glass Prize in 2012 and the Adrian Henri Poetry in Art Prize.

What inspires you to work with this craft?

Glass is a material which reflects, transmits and absorbs light, and can be rendered liquid and solid, it therefore has enormous potential for communicating a broad spectrum of ideas and emotions. It is also a material loaded with cultural reference and significance, which appeals to my passion for storytelling and research, I use glass as a medium to illuminate untold stories.

How do you start your creative process?

I am interested in the dichotomies which arise when making contemporary artwork using traditional methods. As a result, my practice embraces a range of traditional techniques including glass painting, casting, glass blowing and engraving and digital processes like screen-printing, photography and waterjet cutting.

Your Workspace?

I also make work for exhibition and architectural contexts. My work was selected for the British Glass Biennale in 2015 and 2017. In 2012 I formed Studio Melyn, an architectural glass partnership, with Rachel Phillips. Rachel and I have made stained glass windows for a number of historic and public sites including making wondows for CADW at Conwy, Beaumaris and Caernarfon Castles.

Sharing your craft and experience

I am committed to collaboration in my practice, in 2020-2022 I undertook Root and Branch, a collaboration with Wai Kit Lam, an artist from Hong Kong which resulted in a touring exhibition of artists postcards on the theme of trees involving 40 artists from around the world. I am currently working on a commission in glass for Ancient Connections, exploring overlooked domestic archaeology.