Samphire Fusion

“Samphire Fusion” is the culmination of glassmaking and glazing pottery works by mother and daughter, Adele Samphire (potter) and Lisa Samphire (glass blower).

Samphire came into use in the 16th century to describe a seashore succulent plant growing in England. The ashes of Samphire yield soda ash, which is an important ingredient for glassmaking and in glazing pottery. “Samphire Fusion” is the culmination of works by mother and daughter, Adele Samphire (potter) and Lisa Samphire (glass blower).

Adele and Lisa are planning works of pottery and glass that share and combine their personal techniques and methods in each of their mediums. “The pieces will explore our shared interest in pattern. We are both influenced by patterns found in nature, fabric design, wall paper, and Middle Eastern carpet and calligraphy,” they say.

Adele Samphire received her formal art training at Leeds College of Art and Birmingham College of Art between 1959 and 1964. During the last two years at Leeds, she studied Dress and Textile Design. The latter has remained a major influence in her work. Adele started to work with clay in the late sixties.

Lisa Samphire began her glass blowing career in 1985. Since that time she has produced a diverse body of work, which includes private and public, sculptural and functional pieces. Over the years, she has been recognized and applauded for her glasswork through the receipt of various awards, scholarships, teaching appointments, and commissions. In 2008, Lisa had four pieces acquisitioned by the Federal Government of Canada for its visual arts collection. And in 2009, she had two works selected to represent Canada at the Cheongju International Craft Biennale in South Korea.

Lisa’s formal training includes apprenticing in glass with David New-Small at New-Small and Sterling Studio Glass between 1985 and 1995. She graduated from the University of Victoria with a BFA in 1990. For more information about Lisa Samphire: http://www.samphireglass.ca/