Sutton Coldfield based artist Michael Goodrum, aka, Visionary Glass, was another of the exhibitors in the Victoria Square marquee during Artsfest. Using individually hand-cut fragments of glass, Michael creates a range of stunning sculptural glass canvases depicting the abstract forms from nature and landscapes.

The British Glass Biennale only comes round every two years, and is happening 27 August – 11 September in Stourbridge.

The UK’s major exhibition of contemporary glass in association with the Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers and the International Festival of Glass

This is the UK’s top contemporary glass showcase and will feature work of over 80 of the country’s leading glass artists with £11,500 in prize money being awarded. This is a rare opportunity to see a huge variety of work in a selling exhibition, from finely crafted vessels to bold sculptural works.

The exhibition is open daily 10am – 5pm and is the highlight of the International Festival of Glass.

Other interesting things going on include masterclasses, demonstrations, performances and events.

Happening from 22 August to 28 September, the British Glass Biennale 2008 is:

the UK’s top contemporary glass showcase featuring 82 of the country’s leading glass artists with £14,000 in prize money being awarded. This is a rare opportunity to see a huge variety of work in a selling exhibition, from finely crafted vessels to potent political installations. A special student section is included for the first time so you can spot up and coming talent

Which is really very prestigious indeed – I’ve heard the phrase ‘the Turner Prize for glass’ used.

It takes place in Stourbridge and is part of the International Festival of Glass taking place from 22 to 25 August.  You can see the other events taking place on the events schedule pdf.

*Update*: Sid Langley in the Birmingham Post has written more about this, as has Terry Grimley (arts editor) who says:

Stourbridge’s International Festival of Glass can seriously claim to be the most internationally significant visual arts event taking place in the West Midlands this year

From her workshop in Kings Heath she has used various glass-forming techniques to create floor, wall and table lamps as well as huge chandeliers, while “exploring the relationships between glass, copper, concrete, light and stone”.

You may have seen some of her work in bars around Birmingham including Poppy Red, Equator and Denial. Otherwise you can also see her work in the Art Lounge in the Mailbox and on her website.

The British Glass Biennale is taking place in Stourbridge from 22 August to 28 September. Entries have to be in by March 28th.

The British Glass Biennale is the foremost exhibition of excellence in contemporary glass by artists, designers and craftspeople currently working in Britain. Taking place every two years at the Ruskin Glass Centre it is the highlight of the International Festival of Glass, launched in 2004 in the heart of Stourbridge’s historic Glass Quarter. At least 150 major new glass works from British artists are selected, making this a significant statement of national glass talent.

The British Glass Biennale is delighted to be working in association with the Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers to offer three prizes for 2008:

• The British Glass Biennale Award, increased to £8000 for ‘best in show’
• The Glass Sellers Award worth £5000
• The Glass Sellers Student Award of £1000

The emphasis is on new work demonstrating excellence in design and technical skill. All work must be available for purchase.