Glass in Isolation closing this Sunday

Glass in Isolation at Mossenson Galleries in Subiaco features the work of 26 glass artists from the Glass Artists of Western Australia in their first exhibition at the gallery. The group formed in 2014 following a national glass exhibition held in Perth, initially establishing a Facebook page for glass artists to communicate with each other, share information and images, and connect to the wider community. Followers from around the world were soon drawn to the page, and opportunities such as exhibitions were organised to spread the word about their chosen medium. For Glass in Isolation, members reflect on the broad theme in various ways, choosing to explore the isolation of Western Australia, or the physical and mental isolation of the pandemic.

As one of the organisers of the show, glass artists Silvana Ferrario says she’s been excited by the quality and variety of works produced. “They are at all levels of experience and use a vast number of techniques which speak to their own stories.”

Members include Greg Ash, who has been working in glass since 2002, Marc Lieb, whose work has evolved from an extensive study of patterns, shades and transparency, and Nada Murphy who uses the medium as a vehicle for storytelling.  Ruth Connop says she joined the group about seven years ago, though she had only been working in glass previously for a couple of years. “There was an exhibition in Bunbury and I was asked to contribute. Part of that process was to join the group.”

She says the show is a fabulous example of contemporary art glass in Western Australia. “The varying techniques, and completely different expressions in the work are just wonderful. We’re all working in the same medium, and yet there’s a huge array of results.” 

With 119 works in the exhibition and prices ranging from $25 to $2900, Ferrario says its “a must see” show leading up to Christmas, closing this Sunday.