Robert Walker

byUMBERTO

Gilder

©Arran Cross

Gilding glass in celebration of times past

Robert creates contemporary art pieces using traditional sign-writing on glass
He learned his craft under the guidance of glass gilder David A. Smith
Preserving the heritage of verre églomisé is at the heart of his practice

Although he made it his full-time profession much later in life, Robert Walker began sign writing in 1992 while he was still in high school. He spent years teaching graphic design, and rekindled his passion for glass gilding in 2012 after coming across John Mayer’s Born and Raised album sleeve, created by the artist David A Smith. Robert began to learn etching and gilding from David directly, and opened his own studio, byUMBERTO, in 2017. Robert is a master of verre églomisé, which involves painting a design and applying gold leaf onto the rear face of a piece of glass. "My fine art practice aims to modernise the historic value of reverse-glass etching and bring a new voice to embossed glass artwork and its heritage," he states. Inspired by historical architecture and craftsmanship, Robert creates objects for exteriors, interiors and collectors.

Interview

©Arran Cross

Why did you choose the verre églomisé technique?: It is a fundamental requirement for my sense of self and wellbeing to practise a craft with my hands, and to express myself through precise traditional and heritage-led craftsmanship. It allows me to grow as an individual maker.
What do you love most about your craft?: Building a legacy that will outlive me. My works may well become the antiques of the future. The materials force me to respect them and slow down everything. The movement and action of gilding dictate breathing and posture, encouraging a meditative state of mind.
What are your specialist skills?: I specialise in several techniques: acid etching, water gilding, oil gilding, chemical silver mirroring, sign writing, mother-of-pearl inlay, gold blending, hand-painted illustration, hand-drawn typography, design and layout.
In what way is your craft linked to the UK?: Reverse gilded glass artworks were increasingly popular through the reign of Queen Victoria, where any business that desired to stand out from their competitors would opt for a gilded sign and embellished glass. Particular styles of verre églomisé can be found in the Pennines.

Robert Walker is a rising star: he began his career in 2017 and he started teaching in 2019