Luis Parades

Glass sculptor

©Nicolas Cancio

©Héctor Jácome

The glass architect of dormant worlds

Luis uses glass fusion, thermofusion and coldwork techniques to form his sculptures
He won the Coup de Coeur at Résonance(s), Strasbourg
He finds inspiration in urban scenes, ruins and landscapes

Luis Parades is primarily a storyteller, using glass as a medium to stage his tales. His works are compelling as standalones, but it is the intention he imparts to his scenic designs that impacts most profoundly. His installations allow the observer to interpret and contribute to a narrative, bringing his suspended worlds to life. Initially drawn to study metalwork, he serendipitously discovered glass during a summer in the 1980s. "I encountered a material I was completely unfamiliar with, and it simply hooked me!" he recounts. Luis pursued formative courses far from his homeland in Asturias, eventually landing in Segovia, where he discovered the wonders of molten glass at La Granja. Although his first pieces date back to 1986, his true breakthrough came at the turn of the millennium when he began working with the roll-up technique alongside American glass masters in Segovia.

Interview

©Héctor Jácome

©Héctor Jácome

How do architecture and scenography relate to your work?: I love architecture and spend a lot of energy on thinking how I will showcase my collections. It is very important for me to know that my work can engage and communicate in a given space. I use ephemeral architecture as a tool to generate emotion without needing to provide any explanations about my intention. Just seeing someone moved by my work makes it all worthwhile.
What are the themes that inspire your stories?: Though I find inspiration in everyday living, architecture and territory are definitely common themes. This includes the abundant water sources in Asturias, from Las Regueras to the Cantabrian Sea. My stories relate to climate change, to nature and ruins.
How are you able to capture these themes in your work?: Through the 2D imprint of ruins that I transform into 3D oneiric experiences. I capture and revive a memory of invisible worlds. This concept is best represented in my series Submerged Stories from 2015, a collection that has brought me immense joy. This series explores the submerged towns beneath reservoirs, which resurface during droughts, reminding us vividly of their existence.
Who is your target audience and how have you marketed your work?: I initially exhibited my work at Maison et Objet. Over time, I realised that the unique nature of my work was more suitable for specific audiences such as gallery owners, collectors, architectural studios, and museums. Consequently, I began seeking out alternative venues in Europe, such as Résonance(s) in Strasbourg, where I have participated for over 10 years.

Luis Parades is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1986