Charlotte Wilkinson glass specialises in blown and lampworked glass creates striking sculptures that work in perfect harmony with each other. She is fascinated by the fast-paced, exhilarating process of turning molten glass into unique sculptures. The final form is dictated by natural forces acting on the hot glass.
Charlotte graduated from the Design Crafts course at De Montfort University in 2014, going on to become an Honorary Artist in Residence the following year. She later returned in 2017, to begin her PhD research into the application of Holograms onto handmade glass objects, which she is due to complete in 2023.
Charlotte Wilkinson glass is inspired by medical imaging. An MRI scan of her dad’s brain grabbed her imagination and form the basis of her work.
“I am drawn to these captivating images as they reveal insights into the human body that would otherwise be unseen; the precision of our structures and the patterns of our cells and organs is beyond fascinating to me,” says Charlotte.
These amazing images are then translated into physical movements to use in the hot shop. It is this process that led to the development of Charlotte’s signature patterning style. Her work echoes the undulating forms typical of viewing MRI scans in succession.
Vivid colour and pattern are key factors for Charlotte. She will often layer and blend colours to create depth in the glass. She also exploits the optic qualities of the glass material. These are then further enhanced by decorative cold working techniques. Finally, each piece is finished with a high shine polish.