Dialogue between time and human existence
- Katarzyna is an award-winning glass artist
- She trained in Poland and in Spain
- She developed a technique that combines lampworking with fusing and casting
Katarzyna Harasym’s glass objects are defined by great diversity and embracing various techniques. A graduate of Wrocław Academy of Art and Design and Fundació Centre del Vidre in Barcelona, she explores concepts of transience through her works. After learning from glass master Pepe Cristales and those behind Luesma & Vega in Barcelona, in 2012 and thanks to EU financing, Katarzyna opened her studio Przezroczysta, which translates as 'transparent'. She is a versatile artisan equally comfortable creating a bespoke everyday glassware collection, an artistic installation or a glass sculpture. Her works are inspired by nature and daily life. Katarzyna is also a glass upcycling aficionado. She regularly gives courses, trainings and technique showcases. In 2011, Katarzyna won Glass Review 32 from New York City’s Corning Museum of Glass.
Interview
- When and how did you start your professional path?
- I started learning about glass techniques during my studies. I liked lampwork the most and used this technique to create my diploma work called Five Disturbing Emotions. Then, after graduation, I commenced training in fusing and creating glass objects.
- How does tradition relate to your work?
- The principles of working with glass have not changed for centuries, so every day I work similarly to how glass artists did a few centuries ago in Lower Silesia. Only today my workshop and kilns are better than back then!
- Has there been an unforgettable moment in your journey with glass?
- Unforgettable moments are when works reach audiences and gain recognition. What matters is the final effect and interaction with the audience. Winning Glass Review 2011 in New York for my installation Descamación – Peelings was the most important professional moment for me so far.
- How is your craft linked to the land?
- Wroclaw is the only place in Poland where you can learn to work with glass. Lower Silesia has a huge glassmaking tradition and it lives on. Since I run courses and training, there seems to be a lot of interest in glassmaking and the craft is far from endangered today.
Katarzyna Harasym is a master artisan: she began her career in 1999 and she started teaching in 2011
Where
Katarzyna Harasym
