ROBERT GARY PARKES
GLASS ARTIST
"Nature's Colors in Glass: Crafting Timeless Elegance"
Artist Statement
Robert has been working in different glass mediums for over 40 years. Originally influenced by the arts & crafts movement of the sixties, after working almost two decades building and refurbishing leaded glass windows, in 1987 Robert pursued his passion for glassblowing. Robert completed a formal five-year apprenticeship program with master glassblower Robert Held in Vancouver and continued to design for and collaborate with Held for 22 years.
In 2009, Robert built “The Loafing Shed Glass Studio” on his five-acre farm in Port Kells, North Surrey. Robert now enjoys the freedom to create new designs as they come to mind. The influence of colors, shapes and textures found in nature can be seen in Robert’s works; from water and stone to trees and things in the sky. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and expertise with visitors at his open studio events.
As well, Robert has created commissioned glass for a variety of BC corporations, and many for the City of Surrey. In 2011, Mayor of Surrey Dianne Watts presented Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush with gifts of glass by local artisan Robert Gary Parkes, at the Surrey Regional Economic Summit.
Artistic Style
This artist's work in glassblowing draws deeply from the colors, shapes, and textures of nature. Influenced by the Arts & Crafts movement, his creations embody the fluidity of water, the solidity of stone, and the organic forms of trees and the sky. His style blends vibrant hues and intricate forms to capture the essence of natural elements, resulting in glass art that reflects both the beauty of the environment and his technical mastery.
Ocean Series Trumpet Vase
Octopus Pot -Ruby Red
Spring Flower Series Bowl
Folded Lip Flower Pot
Tidepool Paperweights
Candy Bowls - Jewel Tones