Another artist talk that we were invited to attend was that of Mark Hursty. With an array of glass-making experience, he is definitely an artist I envy (but in a nice, looking-up-to way rather than a jealous-green-monster way). He has moved through many a different technique, from using handmade press-moulds with molten glass to blowing impressive forms in the hotshop. He also made a series of forms which featured layering of colours with copper inclusions, created in a scary-sounding big bath of chemical stuff. This is a technique I consider to be very effective; the metallic finish of the copper really compliments the transparent yet reflective qualities of glass. I find his glass blowing style particularly inspiring, as he is not focused on making on center forms but manages to sculpt impressive figures from the hot material, such as his horse series or his more recent puppets.
Working in the Glass Centre, students do share the environment with visiting artists such as Mark Hursty. As he has been working in the hotshop (without an assistant, which is mind-blowingly impressive), we have been able to watch him work. He actually came over to tell me that he liked my glass eggs which I had been making... he then proceeded to make a leg. An actual human-like leg. I think for now, it is safe to say he wins!