When it comes to victoria artist shines a light on the ocean with crushed glass art, in the picturesque neighborhood of James Bay, Barbara Morris is turning the beauty of the ocean into stunning works of art using crushed glass. Known for her unique creations, Morris collects sea glass during her regular beach strolls, which she then transforms into intricate designs that capture the essence of the sea. Her journey as an artist began at a young age, and today, her work stands as a testament to her dedication and creative vision.
Understanding Victoria Artist Shines A Light On The Ocean With Crushed Glass Art
For many artists in Victoria, the ocean serves as a constant muse, and Barbara Morris is no exception. A self-proclaimed lover of the coast, she often finds herself wandering the sandy shores, gathering sea glass that has been polished by the waves. “You can hold sea glass up through the sun, and it just shines so beautifully,” she explains. With about 25 large containers filled with these colorful treasures, Morris has perfected the art of using crushed glass to reflect the vibrant hues of the ocean. Learn more about this topic on Wikipedia.
Her artistic journey began at the tender age of six, inspired by her mother’s gardening activities. While her mother tended to flowers, Morris experimented with watercolors, painting the blooms that surrounded her. This early exposure to art laid the foundation for her future career. After moving from Edmonton to Vancouver Island seven years ago, she found her true calling in transforming sea glass into breathtaking art pieces.
Crafting Waves and Depth
Morris’s creative process is as intricate as the ocean waves she depicts. When she starts a new piece, she carefully selects colors that represent the sea. Aqua green and deep blue are her go-to choices for the waves, while brown glass serves as a representation of the ocean floor. “I use clear glass as well on the outside of the wave. Then once that’s done, I’ll take the seashells that I’ve collected, and I’ll place those as well onto the piece,” she explains, detailing her method. The seashells add a personal touch, reminiscent of the sandy beaches she frequents.
The final touch in her creations comes with a layer of resin, which not only enhances the colors but also provides a glass-like finish that captures light beautifully. “If you put it into a glass frame and hang it in the window, it shines so beautifully,” she notes. The combination of crushed glass and resin results in pieces that are both visually stunning and evocative of the natural world.
Safety First in Glass Artistry
While the beauty of her work is evident, Morris emphasizes the importance of safety when working with crushed glass. Each piece starts with the careful crushing of glass, a process that requires protective gear. “You have to wear gloves when you work with sharp glass,” she says. Additionally, she uses a mask while mixing and pouring resin to avoid inhaling harmful fumes. Once completed, the artwork needs to dry in a ventilated area to ensure safety. Morris’s commitment to both artistry and personal safety underscores her professionalism in the craft.
Despite the challenges, her passion for art shines through. For the past 20 years, Morris has shared her love for creativity with others by teaching art. Her dedication to nurturing future artists reflects her belief in the transformative power of artistic expression.
Art as a Community Connection
Morris’s work not only captures the beauty of the ocean but also fosters a sense of community. Through her teaching, she inspires others to explore their creativity, showing them that art can be a powerful medium for connection and self-expression. As she continues to create and share her passion, she hopes to encourage more people to appreciate the beauty of nature and find their own artistic voice.
As Barbara Morris looks to the future, she remains focused on her craft while inviting others to join her journey. Each piece of art tells a story of the ocean, and through her unique lens, she brings the essence of the sea into homes across Victoria. Her creations remind us all of the beauty that lies just beyond our shores, waiting to be discovered in the form of art.
Originally reported by Sooke News Mirror. View original.
