Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council

Introducing Studio Glass Exhibition

Archived news release from 02 August 2005

Introducing Studio Glass Exhibition
Two resident glassmakers at Broadfield House Glass Museum will mark the end of their first scholarship year with a special exhibition of their work.

Hannah Cridford and Jonathan Rogers run Mulika Glass from the hot glass studio at the museum in Compton Drive, Kingswinford. The scholarship is awarded on an annual basis, however museum staff have been so impressed with the success of Mulika Glass, they have been awarded a second year of residency.

During their time at the Dudley Council run museum, Hannah and Jonathan have participated in several high-profile trade shows, such as Pulse and Top Drawer, but the latest show, called Introducing… will be their first major exhibition.

Mulika Glass was founded by Hannah and Jonathan shortly after they graduated from The Edinburgh College of Art. Initially they received funding, in the form of studio time, from the National Glass Centre in Sunderland which greatly assisted with the first steps of their fledgling business. They went on to apply for the Broadfield Scholarship Studio and have been based there since January 2005.

Councillor Charles Fraser Macnamara, cabinet member for culture and leisure, said:

"The scholarship scheme offers glassmakers the chance to develop their skills and make business contacts. Mulika Glass has had a very successful year here, and Hannah and Jonathan have firmly established themselves in the UK studio glass scene. We hope they will continue to build on this success next year and into the future."

Glassmaker Jonathan Rogers said:

"Mulika Glass produces a sophisticated collection of glassware with an emphasis on innovative design and pure aesthetics. Although much of our time this year has been spent establishing Mulika Glass, we still try to find time to explore our own personal projects. Our time at the Broadfield Studio has been invaluable, and has enabled us to blossom as glassmakers in a supportive and nurturing environment."

Also on show in the exhibition will be textile art by Laura McCafferty. Laura graduated from Nottingham Trent University in 2003 and now has her own studio in Nottingham. Her work is inspired by people and she aims to capture life today in a comical yet poignant way. Laura uses screen printing and embroidery on a range of fabrics to produce her unique artworks.

The exhibition Introducing… will run from September 10 to January 9. It is open from noon to 4pm every day except Mondays and admission is free. The studio is open to visitors from noon to 4pm from Wednesday to Sunday. For further information, contact Broadfield House Glass Museum on 01384 812745, or visit www.glassmuseum.org.uk.

Release Date: 02 August 2005
Directorate: Urban Environment

Contact: Kari Moodie, Broadfield House
Phone: 01384 812749
Email: kari.moodie@dudley.gov.uk

Contact: Phil Parker, Marketing and communications
Phone: 01384 815219
Email: phil.parker@dudley.gov.uk