Baiba Dzenite

Baiba Glass

Glassblower

©Baiba Dzenite

©Andrew Chizhov

©Baiba Dzenite

Glass experiments

Baiba is inspired by elements of nature, such as dew and fog
She is interested in glass traditions from around the world
She feels the best tool for shaping hot glass is a sheet of wet newspaper

Baiba Dzenite always wanted to be an artist and designer. While she was studying, she had the chance to visit a few hot glass studios in the Czech Republic, which focused her attention on the hot glass technique and led her to found her brand, Baiba Glass. Because she enjoys working with different types of glass, she often works in different studios, but aspires to have her own one day. Her main technique is glassblowing, but she also works with cast glass and loves to experiment, combining glass with other materials and finding her own techniques. In that way, her beautiful glass artwork becomes unique and distinguishable from other artists.

Interview

©Polina Viljun

©Andrew Chizhov

Where did you train in glassmaking?: I started my studies at the Riga Design and Art School in the glass design department and later continued at the Art Academy of Latvia. I also participated in the Erasmus traineeship programme, where I learned various hot glass and coldworking techniques from very experienced masters.
What was the first glass artwork you made?: A vase for a collection called Calm. The collection is created using a traditional, antique, Latvian linen craft tool that leaves a particular imprint in free-formed, mouth-blown glass. It reveals plasticity and a brilliant shine.
Is it traditional to work with glass in Latvia?: In Latvia this craft has a long tradition but it is not so popular compared to ceramics or metalwork. The combination of Latvian glass and linen traditions reflects this breath of history in a contemporary way, creating glass art objects that have never been seen before.
Can you share a memorable moment from your professional life?: Last year I went to Venice for Glass Week 2019 and I wanted to buy a glass engraving tool. It was not easy, but by accident I met a man on the street who overheard me and brought me to the place where there was one last engraver left. The experience was surreal and magical.

Baiba Dzenite is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2010