A Glass Act at Bede's World

Modern art stands shoulder-to-shoulder with ancient glass works as part of a new exhibition at Bede’s World. Inspired by art dating back to Bede’s time, glass and ceramics students from Sunderland University have crafted pieces which blend a traditional craft with contemporary ideas.

The exhibition is titled A Journey In Glass And Ceramics and comprises of work from MA and PhD students, will be on display until early May.

The students have been given the opportunity to present their own interpretation of the Bede’s World site, as well as develop a greater understanding about the extraordinary life of the Venerable Bede.

Internationally renowned expert and writer on glass Professor Sylva Petrova from the University of Sunderland who curates the exhibition said: “The show introduces the works of 18 artists from the UK, China, Sweden and Korea. Although many of the students are still in the early stages of their careers, the pieces show a high level of professionalism and artistic output.

“The diverse range of ideas and conceptions featured throughout the exhibition are based on the student’s ability to use glass and ceramic as material in artistic expressions. Many pieces presented in the Bede’s World exhibition are specially designed for the museum and are in visual or spiritual correspondence with the architecture, cultural significance of the place and its message.  The use of the word ‘journey’ in the exhibition title symbolizes not only our lives or the Venerable Bede’s life and works. The title wants to point out that these artists are “on the road” of their artistic carriers, on the “road” to win their future in the world of art and academia as well.”

Pearl Saddington, Bede’s World Youth and Community Education Engagement Officer, said: “Glass has great significance to Bede’s World as it houses many extraordinary pieces of 7th Century stained glass that was discovered in the excavation that took place at St Paul’s Monastery. This has been an interesting project for the students and I’m delighted with the exhibition”.

Visit Bede’s World to take in the beauty of these bespoke glass and ceramic creations, and if you’re tempted you can pop in a bid – all pieces in the exhibition are for sale!