Richard Shakspeare
Richard Shakspeare, nicknamed Will, stands as one of the most prominent glass blowers in the country, celebrated for his distinctive and captivating creations.
He has been featured regularly in the press and on TV including Inside The Factory, Kirstie's Homemade Home and Kirstie's Homemade Christmas with Kirstie Allsopp, as well as in the Telegraph Magazine with David Nicholls.
Will's creations draw inspiration from the world around him, transforming reality into art. His Somerset range encapsulates the essence of the region's landscapes, while the Hedgerow and Winter collections reflect an unwavering dedication to intricate detail. The Coast series, originally sparked by the Isles of Scilly, has organically expanded to encompass various shores across the nation.
In Will's words, "I like making a wide range of work, which is constantly evolving, it keeps you on your toes. All of my designs have a random factor, an aspect beyond my control. My inspiration is the backbone to my work - it is the driver for change." This inspiration flows from the ebb and tide of water, the dance of light on the ocean's surface, and the enigmatic beauty of rock pools.
Increasingly, the Somerset landscape has also woven its way into Will's artistic tapestry. The interplay of sky and land, the vivid hues of the rhynes and hedges, and the serenity of the river outside his workshop all contribute to the evolving narrative of his art. Will's creations embody the symbiotic relationship between his surroundings and his craft.
As Will himself muses, "It always amazes me how close all this stuff is - you just need a bit of time to have a look." Through his glasswork, he beckons us to take that time, to peer into the depths of his creations, and to witness the wondrous fusion of nature and imagination that defines his art.