Back from Biot: Glass, Fire & Old Friends
A few weeks ago we had a fantastic few days in Biot, France, where we had the pleasure of visiting the Biot International Glass Festival ...and what a few days it was!
Travelling over from Bristol, it was wonderful to find ourselves surrounded by so many familiar faces from the world of glass. One of the best things about being a glassmaker is the community that comes with it, and Biot was a brilliant opportunity to catch up with old friends, fellow makers and glassblowing peers from across the world.
For three days, the beautiful streets of Biot were transformed into a celebration of glass, with glassmakers demonstrating their skills, sharing techniques and creating some incredible work right in front of the public.
What struck us most was the atmosphere. Glassmaking can sometimes feel like a reclusive craft, with hours spent at the furnace, concentrating on the piece in front of you, so being surrounded by so many other makers was incredibly refreshing. There was plenty of talk about glass, techniques and ideas, along with the inevitable stories of furnaces, mishaps and pieces that didn't quite go according to plan!
Biot was also a great reminder of just how many different ways there are to work with glass. From delicate flame work to large-scale glassblowing and experimental techniques, there was something fascinating around every corner.
The Village des Chalumistes, exhibitions, demonstrations and Fusion Glass Fashion Show all added to the atmosphere, while the beautiful setting of Biot made the whole experience feel rather special.
For us, though, it was the people who made the trip. Seeing so many friends and fellow glassmakers, sharing ideas and simply spending time together was every bit as enjoyable as seeing the incredible glass being made.
We’ve come back to Bristol feeling inspired, full of new ideas and reminded once again why we love this wonderful, slightly fiery, sometimes unpredictable craft!
Au revoir Biot, thank you for a brilliant weekend of glass, friendship and inspiration.
BGW