Research

This practice-led research investigates the encapsulation of complex flameworked glass components within the interior and on the surface of sandcast glass forms. The research develops new techniques and adapts historical hot glass inclusion methods to achieve consistent and repeatable results. Technical challenges associated with encapsulation include smearing, elongation, cracking, contamination, displacement and breakage of inclusions during the casting process.

The investigation builds upon the methods of artists José Chardiet and Paul Stankard, focusing particularly on adaptations of pre-heated mould techniques and paperweight inclusion processes. Through mould pre-heating, a new process termed the ‘transitional inclusion’ was developed. This method stabilised inclusions during casting, reducing distortion, displacement and thermal shock.

Historical paperweight techniques were further adapted through the development of the ‘floating inclusion’. Combined with encapsulation methods derived from paperweight making, this process enabled the creation of detailed inclusions suspended between layers of glass strata. These methods reduced undesirable reactions between flameworked elements and molten furnace glass, while preserving clarity, structural integrity and fine detail during casting.

A second new process, termed the ‘partial inclusion’, was developed through the use of metal mandrels to create negative voids within the sandcast form. These voids enabled flameworked inclusions to be attached to the surface of the annealed cast using glass posts, removing the requirement for strict glass compatibility during the casting stage.

A series of artworks were produced to test, refine and extend the technical processes developed through the research. Through three case studies, the artworks explored the conceptual potential of the inclusion within transparent solid mass. Relative placement, suspension and encapsulation generated possibilities for a new visual language in glass, allowing themes of vulnerability, preservation, emotional residue and the suspended trace of human experience to emerge through material process.

This investigation contributed new knowledge to the field through the development of innovative encapsulation methods applicable to contemporary glass art, studio production and wider glassmaking practice.