When did you start your business and why?
It was always my dream to come and set up my glass studio in Ireland, which I then did in 2006 after six years of study and work in stained glass in the UK.
I loved every minute of my time there and, looking back, I'm so grateful for all the wonderful opportunities I was afforded while training there.
However, there was never any doubt as to where I'd end up. Ireland was always calling me home.
Can you explain your creative process?
Currently, the majority of my work is commissions for private, corporate and public art clients.
I create glass works on both a large and small scale, for a variety of sacred and secular spaces.
Glass commission piece by Bianca
The relationship I build with my client is my number one priority, in order to translate their wishes into a truly special piece and bring their vision to life.
I usually meet with a client and establish a brief, gaining insight into what they would like to achieve.
Before I start designing, I always establish a budget, to make sure that we are both on the same page.
I then put pen to paper or, more recently, stylus to iPad and start designing.
Bianca looking at one of her commission pieces
Once I have completed a design proposal, I correspond with my clients, making sure they are 100% happy with everything before proceeding to manufacture.
I strive to create a mood rather than just a look. It’s all about the interplay of light passing through my glass and crystal. The effect is like light therapy and truly lifts the spirits
What inspires you?
Each commission is completely unique and should be treated that way. When I'm working on commissions for private clients, I'm usually very inspired by their personal story.
Often clients will commission a window in memory of a loved one, so I'm always curious to hear about the person's traits or their relationship so the inspiration flows from this.
Indoor window art created by Bianca
For corporate and public art commissions, inspiration usually comes from the surroundings, the architecture and the story of the brand. It's important for me to create relevant artworks which are welcoming and which people can relate to but also understand.
What has been the most rewarding piece you have completed?
I'm privileged to be creating glass works in my studio after almost 20 years in business in Ireland. There have been some tough times along the way, but my passion for my art has always pulled me through.
I can't single out any one commission as the most rewarding, as each commission gives me joy because if it didn't, the piece wouldn't be leaving the studio!
Lately, I suppose, memorial glass art has been particularly satisfying. Creating bespoke monumental works for bereaved clients in honour of loved ones is a very special thing to do.
What are your best sellers?
Although most of my work is commission-based for clients, I also create a retail selection of small hanging pieces ideal for corporate and personal gifting.
Smaller, more affordable (but always beautiful) items are always popular in the lead up to Christmas. I suppose these smaller glassworks, made in my studio, would be similar to limited edition prints to a painter.
What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing an artistic career?
Seek out as much training as you can before jumping into your full-time career.
During my college days, I happily worked for peanuts over the holidays in a glass studio in Dublin. It was the best training I ever received and it developed my craft skills from the get-go.
Don't be in a rush, take time and avail of all the opportunities surrounding your artistic field and equip yourself with as much experience as you can before launching your artist career.
For more information and to view Bianca’s work, visit biancadivito.com.
Read more
Meet the Maker: Janni Sjostrand
Meet the Makers: Kelly O’Sullivan and Stephen Daly
When did you start your business and why?
It was always my dream to come and set up my glass studio in Ireland, which I then did in 2006 after six years of study and work in stained glass in the UK.
I loved every minute of my time there and, looking back, I'm so grateful for all the wonderful opportunities I was afforded while training there.
However, there was never any doubt as to where I'd end up. Ireland was always calling me home.
Can you explain your creative process?
Currently, the majority of my work is commissions for private, corporate and public art clients.
I create glass works on both a large and small scale, for a variety of sacred and secular spaces.
Glass commission piece by Bianca
The relationship I build with my client is my number one priority, in order to translate their wishes into a truly special piece and bring their vision to life.
I usually meet with a client and establish a brief, gaining insight into what they would like to achieve.
Before I start designing, I always establish a budget, to make sure that we are both on the same page.
I then put pen to paper or, more recently, stylus to iPad and start designing.
Bianca looking at one of her commission pieces
Once I have completed a design proposal, I correspond with my clients, making sure they are 100% happy with everything before proceeding to manufacture.
I strive to create a mood rather than just a look. It’s all about the interplay of light passing through my glass and crystal. The effect is like light therapy and truly lifts the spirits
What inspires you?
Each commission is completely unique and should be treated that way. When I'm working on commissions for private clients, I'm usually very inspired by their personal story.
Often clients will commission a window in memory of a loved one, so I'm always curious to hear about the person's traits or their relationship so the inspiration flows from this.
Indoor window art created by Bianca
For corporate and public art commissions, inspiration usually comes from the surroundings, the architecture and the story of the brand. It's important for me to create relevant artworks which are welcoming and which people can relate to but also understand.
What has been the most rewarding piece you have completed?
I'm privileged to be creating glass works in my studio after almost 20 years in business in Ireland. There have been some tough times along the way, but my passion for my art has always pulled me through.
I can't single out any one commission as the most rewarding, as each commission gives me joy because if it didn't, the piece wouldn't be leaving the studio!
Lately, I suppose, memorial glass art has been particularly satisfying. Creating bespoke monumental works for bereaved clients in honour of loved ones is a very special thing to do.
What are your best sellers?
Although most of my work is commission-based for clients, I also create a retail selection of small hanging pieces ideal for corporate and personal gifting.
Smaller, more affordable (but always beautiful) items are always popular in the lead up to Christmas. I suppose these smaller glassworks, made in my studio, would be similar to limited edition prints to a painter.
What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing an artistic career?
Seek out as much training as you can before jumping into your full-time career.
During my college days, I happily worked for peanuts over the holidays in a glass studio in Dublin. It was the best training I ever received and it developed my craft skills from the get-go.
Don't be in a rush, take time and avail of all the opportunities surrounding your artistic field and equip yourself with as much experience as you can before launching your artist career.
For more information and to view Bianca’s work, visit biancadivito.com.
Read more
Meet the Maker: Janni Sjostrand
Meet the Makers: Kelly O’Sullivan and Stephen Daly
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