The Scottish Glass Society

Jessamy Kelly Jessamy Kelly Glass

Name and contact details:

Jessamy Kelly Jessamy Kelly Glass [Blown glass - sculptural & Blown glass - tableware]

2/9 Elm Row, Edinburgh, EH74AA
Website: http://www.jessamykellyglass.com
Email: info@jessamykellyglass.com
Membership: Individual member

Inspiration

I am an artist, working predominantly in the mediums of glass and ceramics.

Glass and Ceramics have many common qualities; processed in similar ways they are often transformed into functional or decorative art objects. Their translucency and reaction to light intrigues me and is the focus of my creative practice. The qualities of the materials when light passes through them to reveal inner luminosity inspires me to combine them and to examine their relationship in my studio work.

Based on the hand crafted sensitivity of craft practice; my work is inspired by organic and naturally repeating forms. Minimal amounts of cutting are used working with the simplicity of the form to create a soft sensitive aesthetic. Diamond cutting and sandblasting machinery is used to sculpt the pieces. My work shows balance, precision and great delicacy.

Background

In July 2006 I set up a creative venture called Juo Ltd with designer Joanne Mitchell. Juo is a contemporary fused glassware brand aimed at the design-conscious consumer and is based at the National Glass Centre, in Sunderland.

In December 2009, I completed my practice based PhD at the University of Sunderland. My research examined the combination of glass and ceramics in a hot state, within my studio practice as a means of artistic expression. This research offers a potential new model of practice for artists working in glass & ceramics, as very few artists work in both materials.

In January 2002, I completed my Masters degree at Edinburgh College of Art. This involved an Industrial placement at Edinburgh Crystal as a student glass designer. The placement was in collaboration with Edinburgh College of Art, and went towards my Masters Degree in ‘Glass Product Design’. This opportunity gave me the freedom to research and develop ideas within Edinburgh Crystal’s production facilities, allowing a creative and experimental approach within the reality of a commercial environment.

Until July 2006, I worked as an in-house glass designer; I then decided to focus my practice on my studio work and own business. I occasionally work on a freelance basis with industry; this collaboration informs and influences my studio work in a unique and innovative way.

Education:
•Newcastle College, Art Foundation in Ceramics BTEC (Distinction), 1997-1998
•University of Sunderland, BA (Hons) in ‘Glass and Ceramics’, 1998-2001
•Edinburgh College of Art, Master of Design in ‘Glass Product Design’, 2001-2002
•University of Sunderland PT PhD in ‘Glass and Ceramics’, 2004-2009 (ongoing)

Design Experience:
•Designer for Juo Ltd, Sunderland, 07/06 - ongoing
•Freelance Designer for Dartington Crystal, Devon, 02/07 – ongoing
•Part time, Senior Glass product designer at Edinburgh Crystal, Midlothian, 09/04 – 07/06
•Freelance Designer for Place, Kevin McCloud furniture & Homeware Design, 01/05- 05/06
•Full time, In house Glass product designer at Edinburgh Crystal, Midlothian, 01/03 - 09/04

Professional Positions:
•Director of Juo Ltd 06/06- ongoing
•Board member of Cohesion Glass Network 06/06- ongoing
•Board member of Scottish Glass Society 01/07- ongoing
•Board director of Design & Made 02/07- ongoing

Teaching Experience:
•Teaching portfolio sessions at University of Sunderland, 06/02
•Teaching engraving and printmaking workshops at University of Sunderland, 04/02
•Teaching product design workshops at University of Sunderland, 02/05 - 04/05
•Teaching Foundation introduction to Glass & Ceramics at University of Sunderland, 03/06