WORDS BY JESSICA LACCETTI, PH.D PHOTOS SUPPLIED
A breath of hot glass
Glimpse Keith Walker’s imagination and his exclusive creations
Molten glass, pipes, and bubbles - three things that when combined with a classically trained Glasssmith like Keith Walker, result in beautiful sculptures and cups. Walker explains his craftsmanship as a “drive to create a presence and evoke personality.” With his boundary-pushing crafting, Walker says he can “mix his dexterity with creative ideas.” How’s that for alchemy? Clicking through Walker’s website reveals spectacular collections that are both useful (glasses, decanters) and sculptural (these are ‘experimental’ and one-of-a-kind). Following his training, Walker began his practise in Edmonton as a volunteer at a local Glass Happens Studio. Along with this mode of accruing experience, Walker had the opportunity to participate in Salem State University’s month-long glass residency and many international classes. The Alberta Craft Council, Alberta Branded, and Sabrina Butterfly Designs currently represent him. You can also enjoy a series of Walker’s work on display at the Edmonton International Airport - the Skilsaw Umbrella Series - or the installations at the Central Lions Seniors Recreation Centre and the Muttart Conservatory. If you’re planning on staying outdoors, explore the permanent glass installation of
glass pieces are part of the lights along the road so they both light up the way as well as one’s spirit.
204 hand-made glass pieces along downtown
For Walker, this creative play is built upon years of
Edmonton’s Capital Boulevard which links the Alberta
practice and continual refinement of his craft.
Legislature building with MacEwan University. These
His process of “dream, think, draw, make,” highlights
www.modernluxuria.com
- 50 -
