Layton, Peter
Form
Born in Prague in former Czechoslovakia and brought up in England, Peter Layton studied ceramics at the Central School of Art in the swinging 60’s. He went on to teach at the University of Iowa and the University of California at Davis. On his return from the United States he founded the glass department at Middlesex University.
Peter Layton is one of the pioneers of the new Studio Glass movement, having established the London Glassblowing Workshop beside the Thames at Rotherhithe in 1976.
In 1995 the workshop moved to its current location at the Leathermarket near London Bridge, and Peter subsequently set up the Glass Art Gallery to provide a showcase for glass artists from all over the world. In 1996 his book “Glass Art “ was published by A&C Black and the following year he founded and became first chair of the Contemporary Glass Society, representing Britain at numerous international symposia.
Peter’s approach is experimental and his pieces seek to express the magic of glass, its sensuality and fluidity. As an inveterate beachcomber much of his work is inspired by shells and pebbles, lichen patterns, found objects and places visited. Recent works explore the theme of ice and snow; exploiting the way glass freezes at a particular moment in the cooling process. Such pieces record intention and accident, a process partly controlled, partly natural, in the endeavor to create objects that express more than purely functional or decorative qualities.
The studio’s philosophy is that each piece should be unique and signed by the artist. Free blowing allows for a degree of involvement and attention to detail not possible in standardized production.
Peter Layton and Associates Limited was formed in response to a desire to work on a more ambitious scale. Since its establishment in the early 90’s the company has specialized in combining glass with metals to create spectacular sculptures to enhance challenging spaces, e.g. some of the world’s largest cruise ships.
He is considered one of the finest glassmakers working today with pieces in major public and private collections throughout the world, enjoyed by many. He exhibits internationally on a regular basis.
In 2006 London Glassblowing celebrated its 30th anniversary, making it one of the longest running studios in Europe.
In 2008 Peter became a Freeman of the City of London, and an Honorary Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers.
Peters work has been seen at some major events such as:
“In and Out”- The Old Rectory, Quenington, Glos, UK
“Handmade 2008” - Chelsea Old Town Hall, London, UK
“Reflect 2008” – Glaziers Hall, London, UK
“DECOREX”- London, UK
“Origins” – London, UK
“Cream of the Crafts” - RBSA Gallery, Birmingham, UK
“Tempest” International Glass Bead Exhibition, Stourbridge, UK
“British Glass Biennale” – Stourbridge, West Midlands
“The Art of Glass” - The St Ives Society of Artists, St Ives, Cornwall, UK
“Peter Layton and Friends” –Glass Art Gallery, London, UK
“Art in Action” - Waterperry, Oxfordshire, UK
“London Art Fair” – Business Design Centre, London
“Form London” - Olympia, London
“Heart of Glass” – J Morgan Gallery, CA, USA
“SOFA Chicago” - USA