Working on instinct

Jakub initially studied cultural theory before turning to glass
He runs a studio with his partner Michaela Tomišková
They plan to open a glassworks in Prague

Looking at the works of Jakub Janďourek, it is easy to forget that glass derives from sand; it is as if only air shaped these objects. Even the requisite fire vanishes from one's mind. His colour range consists of subtle, pastel tones giving a translucent coating to the forms, while the simplistic, neat contours are disrupted by organic curves. Despite his minimalist style, Jakub's works also have a certain playfulness at their core. "I just play with glass," he explains. "Sometimes, when working on a piece, I spot something peculiar, and regardless of my original plan, I stop and leave the object as it is." This open-mindedness, as opposed to sticking to rigid rules, makes his creations sophisticated.

Jakub Janďourek is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2002

Discover his work

Heat Vase

Heat Vase II

Mr Flame

Glass Mountain

INTERVIEW

My approach to both traditions and innovations is restrained. I do not innovate feverishly, nor survey the history of every technique. I simply work with the skills I have learned, my knowledge, and what I have at my disposal. I prefer the works to be curious rather than perfect.

I felt a desperate need to work manually, and glass fascinated me. Its transparency, luminosity, malleability, its shine when heated, the methods of cold refining. I love all kinds of glass. It was an intuitive choice.

The beginning was hard. Shifts start before 6:00. The heat is unbearable; you're wet from sweat, hands burnt. But the reward is big; I love those moments when I work with the warm glass and just let my body find its own way. My mind's clear, no thoughts.

It is not just me; I run it together with my partner, designer Michaela Tomišková. I create prototypes of all our objects and make approximately a third of our range with my own hands – usually in cases when the piece's handcrafted nature is crucial.