My work draws inspiration from the intricate structural patterns found in nature – those unseen forces that govern organic growth and determine final form.
Exploring the microcosmic world of plant and tree cells, I intuitively construct flowing forms from many pieces of glass. These patterns repeat, expand, and evolve, echoing the complexity of natural systems.
Working primarily with Bullseye glass, colour plays a vital role—not only for its visual impact but for its alchemical potential. The metal content within the glass interacts during the fusing process, creating subtle chemical reactions and unexpected effects that deepen each piece’s uniqueness.
Member of Contemporary Glass Society, Uk Glass Art Collective, North Bristol Artists
Instagram: @rachael.durkan.glass
West Bristol Arts Trail
10th & 11th October
Venue: TBC
North Bristol Arts Trail
28th & 29th November
Venue: TBC
Fisherton Mill
October 10th – November 8th 2026
Group Exhibition with Uk Glass Art Collective
108 Fisherton St, Salisbury SP2 7QY
A collection of original works in fused glass, each piece exploring the structural patterns and hidden architecture of the natural world. Availability varies; several pieces shown here have already been acquired by private collectors.
Collections are exhibited and sold at Bristol Art Trails, selected exhibitions, and partner galleries.
Commissions are welcomed. For enquiries regarding available works or bespoke commissions, please contact Rachael
Bespoke Artwork ranging in size from 20-40cm, displayed in stands or self standing. Created using a range of glass techniques and processes tailored to the individual work. Pieces are fired multiple times, often in sections, allowing layers of colour, texture and form to build gradually until the finished piece emerges. Pieces made on commission.
Lines radiate outward from a central point, built up through 2–3 layers of glass to create a finished piece around 6mm thick and 15–18cm across. Each work is bespoke, with the layering process adding subtle depth and texture as the pattern echoes out from its core.
Approx. 9mm deep and 20cm in diameter, each piece is built from three layers of glass with copper wire inclusions running through the structure. A unique sugar square edge finishes the piece, giving it a distinctive textured border.
Each piece in this series captures the intricate architecture of plant cell structures. Light passes through and catches the surface differently depending on the angle, revealing subtle depth within the pattern. Small variations in colour and texture emerge naturally through the fusing process, giving each work its own individual character.
A limited collection created for an exhibition in 2025, exploring the intricate structures and organic growth patterns found within coral formations. Each work translates these natural systems into fused glass, capturing their complexity and quiet architecture.
Prema Arts Centre
September 10th – October 18th 2025
Group Exhibition with Uk Glass Art Collective
South St, Uley, Dursley GL11 5SS
THG Open (Thelma Hulbert Gallery)
July 12th – August 23rd
Elmfield House, Dowell Street, Honiton, Devon, EX14 1LX
Ferrers Gallery
May 30th – June 15th 2025
Group Exhibition with Uk Glass Art Collective
Staunton Harold Hall, Melbourne Rd, Ashby-de-la-Zouch LE65 1RU
The Stradling Collection – The Christmas Collection
48 Park Row, Bristol BS1 5LH
Prior Gallery, UK Glass Art Collective, ‘Nature in Glass’
Philadelphia Street, Bristol BS1 3BZ
Black Swan Arts, ‘Open 24’
Black Swan Arts, ‘Open 24’ 2 Bridge Street, Frome, BA11 1BB
UK Glass Art Collective, ‘Nature in Glass’
CAN HQ, Memorial Square,Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3TU
Thelma Hulbert Gallery, ‘Showcases’
Elmfield House, Dowell Street, Honiton, Devon, EX14 1LX
Thelma Hulbert Gallery, ‘Present Makers’
Elmfield House, Dowell Street, Honiton, Devon, EX14 1LX
Prior Gallery, ‘New Beginnings’
Philadelphia Street, Bristol BS1 3BZ
