Ann in her studio - photograph Kieran ScottAnn Robinson is acknowledged as one of the great glass artists in the world and is indisputably New Zealand’s leading exponent of cast glass. Her work has received numerous national and international awards, with widespread and on-going critical acclaim.
The source of her inspiration is clear, she says. “I have a great reverence for the plant world – plants are so sensual. When I walk in the bush, I observe detail very closely – the crisscross of the nikau, the pattern at the base of the flax, the pattern of life emerging from the source. I respond to the rhythmic patterns. The eye picks out the harmonies. I like the idea that my pieces encapsulate the music of the forest.”
She points out that the qualities in the natural environment that she sees emerge in her work are those of light and mood, pattern and rhythm, strong simple form, strong contrast, strong sharp colour. Also the persistent evidence of erosion by water and wind, the rubbing of one element against another.
“I used to say that my ambition was to take one's breath away, to suspend the ordinary, to create a moment of stillness,” she says. “But glass is also wonderfully expressive material – magical to live with. Light changes reflect as a change of mood in the work. It’s a very human quality.”
Funded by the Creative Communities Scheme, Business of Arts seminars are low cost, accessible, relevant and specialist. Created especially for arts groups and individuals in the arts sector, each Master Class will contribute to a better understanding of the key factors that promote the survival of your arts initiatives.
In this Master Class Ann talks with arts consultant Tara Jahn-Werner about the realities of creating her work in an often harsh economic environment; the way she operates her new studio near the Whau River in Glendene, and gives her thoughts about how she has remained sustainable over the years.
BUSINESS OF ARTS 2011 Master Class Series
Ann Robinson, glass artist
Thursday July 7th
Corbans Estate Arts Centre
9.30am – 12.30pm
$30 each (includes light refreshments)
Bookings essential: Email info@ceac.org.nz or phone (09) 8384455
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