AN art course proved to be an education for a school transition co-ordinator who is now set to exhibit her handcrafted glasswork at a new pop-up exhibition.
Artist Susan Meachen is to showcase her fusion glass at the Shout About Art exhibition on Sunday, July 19, at the Sjovoll Centre, Front Street, Pity Me, Durham.
Susan, 49, of Newton Aycliffe, who already exhibits and sells her designs at the North East Art Collective, Eldon Garden, Newcastle and NeST Gallery, Barnard Castle, began creating her artworks after being given a one-day glass fusion course as a birthday gift.
“My husband knew that I’d always had a passion for art so he surprised me with a master class as a present,” said Susan.
“I was hooked straight away so I got my own kiln and started making all sorts of glassware - and I didn’t stop.
“At first I started making just as a hobby, and for my own personal enjoyment, but my collection grew and grew and has now turned into a small business on its own.”
Susan’s glass fusion art involves melting glass at temperatures of 840 degrees and incorporating elements of glass line paint, wire and semi precious metals to produce multicoloured pieces.
These include rings, pendants, candle squares, pictures, egg trays, glass wall plaques, christening and birth gifts, cake stands and ground sea glass to create textural pieces including drift wood sailing boats.
“The Shout About Art exhibitions are a great idea for newly established artists like myself to display alongside experienced designer makers, share ideas and grow contacts and customers,” added Susan.
Susan will be among a number of artists to showcase their work at the Shout About Art, pop up exhibitions, the concept of artist and Darlington College lecturer Donna Slyfield, which enables up and coming artists and designer makers to demonstrate their creative skills alongside established artists.
Visitors will have the opportunity to view, buy and commission original works from a wide range of art including fused glass, handcrafted wooden pieces, jewellery, ceramics, upcycled retro lamps, textiles, sculptures, jewellery, photography, print and more.
Donations from the event will be given to the Alzheimers Society.
Tickets cost just £2.00 on the door. Discounted family and friend’s tickets for 4 adults are available fromwww.eventbrite.co.uk/e/shout-about-art-hurworth-tickets. Free parking is available.
The event is free for children under 14 years old when accompanied by a paying adult.
Anyone wishing to join the Shout About Art mailing list can email their details to info@shoutaboutart.com
