Artist in Residence: Sam Mukumba

We’ve enjoyed Sam Mukumba’s presence and particular genius in the studio recently.

“I’ve been privileged to be funded by Arts Council England to train with a master glass artist, Fiaz Elson.  I’m working on a theme which is our fragile lives, creating an art work which raises awareness of the current refugee crisis.  My focus is on those un-talked about or mentioned in any newspaper.  I mean, those bodies scattered on the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea.   

I’ve been working in and teaching ceramics, sculpting for some time.  But I’d never had an opportunity to sculpt in glass.  This is fascinating territory with a lot to learn.  Having a master with lots of experience has helped me to overcome my anxieties.  I’ve been looking forward to doing this course for years. For me it has been so fascinating because I’ve always worked with hard materials like stone and bronze and clay, but glass requires more thinking.  Sculpting with wax is messy, it sticks on every tool and gets everywhere – but it’s fascinating.”