joanna manousis: glass artist to watch

UK artist Joanna Manousis is quickly making a name for herself in the glass world. In addition to showcasing her painting skills and witty sense of humor, her work has been described as “technically brilliant.” I was initially drawn to Manousis’ spoof of iconic imagery of the 1950’s housewife – specifically the cleaning spray bottles – but the fragile beauty of her installation, Lace, made me look twice (see images below).

Self Contained Sprays, blown, kiln cast, glass, hand painted enamels
18″ x 5.5″ x 5.5″ and 15″ x 4.75″ x 4.75″

Self Contained Spray I, blown, kiln cast, glass, hand painted enamels
15″ x 4.75″ x 4.75″

Joanna Manousis at work

The artist, who created a canopy of glass lace by fusing Venetian cane, earned a Pearson Glass Award, Best Newcomer, for the installation (student category, 2007). 24 year old Manousis graduated with an honors degree in glass at Wolverhampton University and is currently working on a Masters degree at Alfred University in upstate New York. Manousis is one to watch.

Lace, fused glass Murrine

Lace, detail