Handicrafts Artist Stories from Australia

Klaus Moje

Klaus Moje was born in Germany in 1936 and became a pioneering figure in the world of contemporary glass art in Australia. He moved to Australia in the 1980s and played a pivotal role in establishing glass art as a fine art form. Moje co-founded the Glass Workshop at the Australian National University's School of Art, which became a center for glass education and artistic exploration.

Moje's work was characterized by his intricate glass panels and innovative use of kiln-formed glass. He introduced the concept of "painting with glass," layering and fusing different colors and textures to create mesmerizing compositions. His pieces often featured abstract geometric patterns and vibrant colors, showcasing his mastery of glass manipulation.

His influence extended globally through his teaching and participation in international exhibitions. Moje received numerous awards for his contributions to glass art, and his legacy continues through the artists he mentored and the impact he made on the broader glass art community.

Gwyn Hanssen Pigott

Gwyn Hanssen Pigott was born in 1935 in the United Kingdom and later settled in Australia. She gained international acclaim for her exquisite porcelain vessels that seamlessly merged form and function. Pigott's work drew from a range of cultural influences, including Japanese ceramics and European pottery traditions.

Her pieces displayed a remarkable sense of balance, elegance, and refinement. Pigott's delicate vessels were often adorned with intricate patterns, subtle glazes, and precise detailing. Her approach to ceramics emphasized craftsmanship and a deep connection to the tactile qualities of clay.

Pigott's influence extended beyond her artworks; she was a dedicated teacher who shared her expertise with emerging ceramic artists. Her legacy continues through her impact on the Australian ceramics community and her contributions to the global ceramic art scene.

Ron Gomboc

Ron Gomboc, born in 1945, is an Australian sculptor known for his dynamic metal sculptures that capture movement and energy. His works often incorporate a variety of metals and materials, resulting in bold and visually engaging sculptures that interact with their environment.

Gomboc's sculptures can be found in public spaces across Australia and beyond, enhancing urban landscapes with their striking forms. His pieces often play with the interplay between positive and negative space, creating a sense of rhythm and balance.

Throughout his career, Gomboc has received recognition through awards and exhibitions, cementing his status as a leading figure in Australian sculpture. His ability to transform raw materials into sculptural expressions of movement and emotion continues to captivate audiences and enrich public spaces.

Timothy Horn

Timothy Horn, originally from Melbourne, is an artist known for his intricate and opulent glass sculptures. His works challenge traditional notions of beauty and excess, often blurring the boundaries between fine art and decorative arts.

Horn's pieces feature elaborate glasswork combined with other materials such as metals and precious stones. His sculptures are characterized by their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate detailing. By juxtaposing themes of beauty and excess, Horn invites viewers to question perceptions of luxury and aesthetics. His work has earned him recognition both in Australia and internationally, contributing to the discourse on contemporary art and craftsmanship.