Lot 29: Matthew Curtis (British, born 1964, now lives and works in Australia) 'Blue Carapace' A glass Sculpture, circa 2005

'Blue Carapace' A glass Sculpture, circa 2005
mould and free-blown glass, in metal base
205cm tall (with base) engraved 'Matthew Curtis 0731'

Matthew produces his work by blowing the components into a series of steel moulds that trap pockets of air within. When assembled the regularity/irregularity of these componets (there are 30 in this piece) create an internal structure within the larger form, which are then carved and lathe worked as a whole. The end result captures the intensity of the colour which fades and gathers depending on the thickness of the glass to create a diaphanous structure.

Matthew comments: 'The forms that I am working with are loosley reminisent of enlarged organic structures whilst also influenced by minimalist architecture.'

Please see Margot Osborne 'Australian Glass Today' Wakerfield Press, 2005 – pp.68-69