Glass artist Katie-Ann Houghton at work in the hotshop at the Canberra Glassworks. Photo: Pew Pew Studio for ArtsACT.
Canberra glass artist Katie-Ann Houghton has been selected for an arts residency at the acclaimed Toyama Glass Studio in Japan.
The residency is part of a program, which began in 2016, designed to support skilled Australian glass artists to study at the Toyama studio for a month. The studio, located at the foot of Mt Kureha, is renowned for its innovative glasswork.
Ms Houghton, from Canberra Glassworks, said she was looking forward to researching Japan’s design and aesthetics first-hand.
“I will be seeking design influences and inspiration, technical development and forge a connection with the community of glass-makers in Japan,” she said.
Teal glass bottles by Katie-Ann Houghton take the form of the drop bottle and are inspired by the ripple effect of water droplets making contact with a still body of water. Photo: Katie-Ann Houghton.
“After the residency, I intend to use the skills learned to further a project that I have begun in collaboration with the Glassworks.”
A glass blower since 2012, Ms Houghton has been working out of the Glassworks since 2019.
Her work has included glass fabrication, production and commissions for the centre. She has also taught a glass-blowing boot camp for emerging glass-blowers.
Originally from Sydney, Katie-Ann moved to Canberra about 18 months ago to become part of the capital’s active arts community.
Described as an artist, designer and maker, Ms Houghton said her design philosophy was based around the idea that “objects we engage with every day should engage our senses and bring us joy through use”. These can range from hanging lights to glasses, vases and ornamental pieces.
The partnership between Canberra and Tokyo was forged through the AsiaLink Reciprocal Residency Program in 2016-18.
It was put on hold by the COVID pandemic but a spokesperson for Canberra Glassworks said the centre was delighted to re-establish the program this year.
American glass-blower Alexander Rosenberg will be in Canberra on 12 August to demonstrate his skills at Canberra Glassworks for Science Week. Photo: Alexander Rosenberg.
“Katie-Ann Houghton is a highly regarded glass artist,” the spokesperson said.
“Her contemporary works, inspired by early 20th-century design and infused with traditional Venetian glass-making techniques, have captivated audiences both locally and internationally.”
Curator of Australian Art at the National Gallery of Australia, Dr Rebecca Edwards, who was on the selection panel, described Ms Houghton’s application as “strong and well thought through”.
“It’s great to offer this opportunity to someone at this stage in their career,” Dr Edwards said.
The Japanese residency runs from 24 September to 23 October 2023. For Ms Houghton, it includes dedicated time and space to explore, experiment and expand her artistic practice. She also receives a budget of $18,000 for travel and living expenses.
To mark Science Week 2023, American glass-blower Alexander Rosenberg, star of the Netflix series Blown Away, will show his skills in a free public event at Canberra Glassworks on Saturday, 12 August at 11 am and 2 pm. See the website for more information.
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