National Glass Centre

Desiree Hope

Glass designer and maker Desiree Hope, was the winner of the Craftsman Magazine Best Newcomer Award in 2008. She produces both functional and sculptural work which is finished to a very high standard. With her designs constantly evolving, pieces are either one-off or limited edition.

Desiree uses a variety of glass making techniques such as blown glass, Graal, diamond wheel engraving and sandcasting. She enhances her glasswork through extensive grinding and polishing, which subsequently produces interesting optical effects in some pieces.

Her inspiration is largely drawn from a fascination with science and nature, and the intricate patterns that are revealed upon close inspection through microscopy. Living and working in North Yorkshire provides ample material to inspire her work. Fossil hunting along the North Yorkshire coastline inspired her ‘Fossil’ sculptures, which have now become highly collectable.

Desiree drew inspiration for her latest range of vessels ‘Echo Nature’ from a recent visit to the Charles Darwin exhibition at the Natural History Museum in London. Desiree is now working on some exciting new pieces including ‘Fossil Ammonite’ and ‘Enigma’.

All photos:  the artist