Cross cultural lampworking for glass art : the integration, development and demonstration of Chinese and Western lampworking approaches, materials and techniques for creative use

• Main Author: Peng, Yi
• Published: University of Sunderland 2014
• Subjects: 748; Glass
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.616968

This research was undertaken from the perspective of an artist working with glass and lampworking techniques. Lampworking involves working with prepared glass tubes and canes which are heated with the aid of a gas burner and shaped with small pincers. This art-based project offers an example of an artist attempt to integrate what might be termed ‘Chinese’ and ‘Western’ lampworking approaches. Through the creation of artworks this project offers a model of artistic practice using lampworking which forms a counterpoint to the more common kilnformed approach currently prevalent in China. In addition, the artworks that form part of this PhD submission are examples of a current interest amongst some Chinese artists in combining inspiration, commentary and experiences from ‘East’ and ‘West’ into their practice. This project details and contextualizes examples of how lampworking might be used as a medium to this end. ‘Craft’ objects are used as a starting point to develop artworks that highlight what I personally found to be diminishing aspects of Chinese culture; for example the Chinese notion of ‘Change’. This project offers a new body of lampworked artworks which have been exhibited in professional venues at a national level and that demonstrate an artist’s approach to combining aspects of Chinese and Western culture in glass art. The themes, inspiration and making process of the creative works are documented in a written thesis to form a model on which other artists might build. The recent history of Chinese lampworking (1930-2013) is presented, building on interviews and literature review of works not previously published in English. The emergence of lampworking in China as a medium for studio glass practice is also charted. For Western audiences, this research offers an example of how the inspirations from Chinese culture and philosophy have been incorporated into contemporary glass art. It also clarifies the current situation of contemporary Chinese lampworking. For Chinese audiences, this research is an instance of western art influence in Chinese lampworking practice. The demonstration of the contemporary lampworking making process is useful for other Chinese lampworking artists.