Hi Caroline, please introduce yourself and your business…
“Hi, my name is Caroline Weidman from Weidman Glass. I design make and restore stained glass windows, create beautiful lampwork, glass jewellery, sculpture and decorative glass item, such as straws and stirrers and in recent years have developed a unique range of handmade glass Christmas decorations. I hold regular taster workshops in stained glass, fusing, copper foiling and lampworking as well as regular classes where students with some experience can work together in small groups on their own projects.”
That sounds amazing, how long have you been working with glass?:
“My passion with glass started in 2004, initially with stained glass. About 11 years ago I discovered lampworking, both beadmaking and sculpture. I have a Fine Art background and travelled to Venice to learn the techniques of creating lifelike human figures in soft glass. I am particularly interested in capturing expressive movement and am always seeking to improve. After 10 years of practising my work has gained an international reputation and in 2019 I was invited to attend as a guest artist at the British Flame Off held at Uttoxeter. The pieces are currently only shown and sold from the studio.”
That’s wonderful what an experience! And how long have you been based here at Barleylands?:
“I have rented studio space at Barleylands since 2008. In 2013 I moved into two newly built studios, numbers 61 and 62. These can be found on the left as you walk in from the main entrance in front of the large barn about 75 metres from the main gates. I have windows on three sides, with beautiful North facing light. I call it the garden studio as I am surrounded by trees and foliage and the sounds of wildlife. I love that Barleylands has a large free car parking area, great eateries and visitors are able to browse the studios without having to spend. Whilst the Farm Park is a great attraction for children and families, the Village provides a range of services, products and creative opportunities for everyone. I have watched the Village change and grow over the years and am excited to see a new generation of young, creative businesses opening up.”
Speaking of all the creative businesses based here, do you have a favourite studio (apart from your own of course!) to visit?
“My favourite studio to visit is Craft Arena. Denise offers a variety of workshops, has a creative textile gallery, with temporary exhibitions, a vast array of fascinating materials and equipment for sale and is a talented artist in her own right. To The Moon and Back, my nearest neighbour is another favourite. Jane is a passionate advocate for working with children with sensory needs through play and has a wonderful display of unusual gifts and toys for sale.”
And if one of our readers wanted to further information, where should they look?
“Weidman Glass course details and forthcoming dates are available on the website, www.weidman.glass or directly from the studio. Bookings can be made by telephoning 07792 475085 or calling in to the studio. Weidman Glass can also be found on Facebook.”
