May 2016 marks the 20th anniversary of the opening of The Studio of The Corning Museum of Glass, one of the foremost teaching schools for glass in the world. To celebrate, we are featuring 20 artists in the 20 weeks leading up to the birthday. These artists have studied, taught, and created at The Studio. Each Saturday, we’ll share words and work from the artists who have formed a connection with our Studio and our staff.
Richard Whiteley
Richard Whiteley became an apprentice in stained glass at the age of 15, and went on to earn an undergraduate degree from The School of Art, ANU Canberra, and an M.F.A. in Sculpture from the University of Illinois. Whiteley’s work focuses primarily on cast glass and explores voids as the primary constructive agent. Whiteley has presented more than 10 solo exhibitions in the past 10 years and his work is held in several major collections, including The Corning Museum of Glass, The Australian National Gallery, and The Palm Springs Museum. He has also received many research grants to develop creative works and explore technical research. He is currently the head of the Glass Workshop, at the School of Art, Australian National University in Canberra.
What has your involvement been with The Studio over the years? I have been a teacher with The Corning Studio summer program. I have immersed myself within the library researching techniques and the history of glass, and have been a visitor to the Museum whenever I can.
What do you like about working at The Studio? The caliber of the staff and the quality of the facility always makes for a high-quality experience. The added resources of the Museum and library provide important references, so the classes can dig deeper into artists’ thinking and their backgrounds. This is important within the learning experience to understand how and why artworks are made. Corning is unique in this way.
Soma, Richard Whiteley, Canberra, Australia, 2008. 2010.6.18.
As The Studio celebrates its 20th birthday, what would you say about its effect on the glass community? Very quickly, The Studio became a benchmark facility internationally. It continues to make leaps in developing its program and facility, drawing great artists and students to the experience. I am happy to be a part of this history.
Courtesy of Richard Whiteley, © Greg Piper
Thanks, Richard!
Learn more about classes, special programs, artist residencies, and instructors at The Studio.