The Versatile Art of Sunflower Glass Studio NZ
Most of us are cautious when dealing with glass, but this is a versatile material, offering various possibilities for artistic and functional creations. Sandra and Mark Hosking, the owners of Sunflower Glass Studio NZ, know that well. Their creative space in Whitianga is not just a place to experiment and create but also a tribute to their late daughter, Jess, whose legacy is beautifully interwoven into every piece of glass art they create.
A Journey Born of Loss
In June 2011, Jess, a vibrant and talented young lady, embarked on an overseas journey that would, tragically, end too soon. Jess passed away suddenly in Paris, just shy of her 20th birthday. The grief of losing their only child led Sandra and Mark to channel their sorrow into their artistic and creative journey, starting with jewellery making from Jess’s collection of gemstones.
In 2017, Sandra and Mark expanded into glass artistry, purchasing a kiln and learning through YouTube tutorials. By 2019, Mark delved into lampworking, further refining their craft. In 2021, Sunflower Glass Studio NZ Limited was born, celebrating Jess’s favourite flower and unveiling their new logo — Sandra’s sunflower tattoo inspired by Jess. This rebranding symbolised their shift from beading to creating unique glass art pieces.
Creating Unique Pieces
Sandra and Mark create individual and unique pieces of art.
Their glass art ranges from necklaces to wall hangings and bowls.
The unpredictable nature of glass adds to the uniqueness of each creation.
Techniques and Creative Processes
For their kiln work, Sandra and Mark source flat coloured glass from the USA. Fusing requires precision cutting and firing at the correct temperatures to achieve the desired results.
Their lampwork, which uses glass rods from Italy, is equally intricate. They work in front of a torch that heats up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit (538° Celsius). The glass rods are melted, shaped into balls, and manipulated with various tools while being continuously rotated to prevent fractures.
Sandra and Mark’s creative process is guided by Jess’s memory. They often ask themselves whether Jess would appreciate a piece they are working on and draw inspiration from her favourite themes. Sunflowers appear frequently in their work. Additionally, themes from the sea, which was Jess’s happy place, are incorporated into their art, reflecting their family’s shared love for water and swimming.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
Committed to sustainability, the couple uses driftwood and upcycled timber in their creations and ensures that no glass goes to waste.
Broken pieces are repurposed, emphasising their eco-friendly approach to art.
Although they use processed glass for their intricate work, they remain mindful of environmental impacts, aligning their practices with their artistic vision.
The Symbolism of Sunflowers
The sunflower, Jess’s favourite flower, symbolises joy and positivity in Sandra and Mark’s work. Each year, they plant a wall of sunflowers in her honour, a practice that commemorates Jess and also spreads happiness to those who see their vibrant blooms.
Challenges and Rewards in Glass Art
Creating glass art is a labour of love. The process involves many hours of meticulous work, and not every piece turns out as planned. Despite the challenges, the reward comes in the form of unique, custom pieces that bring joy and laughter to their customers. Their funky fish, whimsical mushrooms and joyful flowers exemplify their creativity and dedication.
A Harmonious Partnership
As a husband-and-wife team, Sandra and Mark bring complementary strengths to their work. Sandra’s chaotic creativity and keen sense of colour blend with Mark’s methodical precision and technical skill. This collaboration allows them to create pieces that are aesthetically and structurally pleasing.
A Tribute to Jess
The installation of chairs on Tairua and Piha beaches in memory of Jess is a physical representation of her presence in their lives. These chairs offer a place for contemplation, where visitors can feel the energy of the water and connect with Jess’s memory. For Sandra and Mark, every artistic endeavour is a tribute to their beloved daughter, keeping her spirit alive through their work.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Sandra and Mark aspire to push the boundaries of their glass art, continually exploring new techniques and creating pieces that bring joy and wonder.
They also hope to expand their business, potentially importing and distributing Italian glass to other glassworkers and mosaic artists in Australasia. Their ultimate goal is to make a sustainable living from their art, allowing them to dedicate themselves fully to their creative pursuits.
Find out more about Sandra and Mark’s beautiful work here.
Words by Leonardo Magri
