Demonstration: International Glassblowing Demonstration

Name & age?
Anna Mlasowsky, 40

Profession?
Independent visual artist, curator, and Professor at Konstfack University of Arts, Crafts and Design in Stockholm, Sweden

Education?
Master of Fine Arts, Sculpture, University of Washington, 3D4M program

Why glass?
Glass has held a steadfast position in my work and serves as a metaphorical mirror, as its substance exists across a spectrum of physical states. I use the material’s properties as a mediator to explore dis-belonging, otherness, queerness, and disobedience, often generating objects which are activated and set into context through video, sound, installation, and performance.

What inspires you?
My work is rooted in years of engagement with how the context of our lives genders the experiences of our understanding of the world. It is influenced by my identity as an immigrant and queer woman and my upbringing in a rapidly changing society, which has profoundly influenced my approach to art making. I was born in communist East Germany and grew up through the fracturing of that state, and its transition. My personal experiences have become a platform to discuss the complexities of foreignness and disconnection, encompassing identities as an East German, immigrant, queer woman, disabled person, and one who rejects traditional notions of motherhood and femininity.

Thoughts on Finland?
I was an exchange student at Aalto University in 2009 while studying at the Royal Danish Academy for my BA in Glas. At Aalto, under the guidance of Kazushi Nakada my work developed greatly, and the time there allowed my much freedom to explore who I wanted to be as an artist. I came back last fall to the Bioart Society on an Erasmus grant to partake in a workshop that did geo-mapping for environmental purposes. I was also able to visit Nuutajärvi.

– – – – – –

Name & age?
Diego Rodríguez Blanco, 46

Profession?
Glass master

Education?
EGB and Glass studies at The Royal Glass Factory

Why glass?
Glass has always been in my family, from my great-great-grandfather, who was a glass artisan, to my grandfather, who worked in a mechanical glass factory. I was always surrounded by glass and grew up with the values and knowledge of my ancestors. It’s a material you fall in love with and that makes every day special, whether you’re making any kind of piece.

What inspires you?
My inspiration always comes from the continuity of improvement and perseverance, from there comes the creation of any type of piece using different types of techniques with transparent and colored glass.

Thoughts on Finland?
I hope that the experience in Finland will once again be a learning experience with both the Finnish teachers and all the participants, in being able to share knowledge, techniques, and learn from the best.