Solace wings take flight at the cone
A pair of stunning glass wings has been installed at the Red House glass cone in time for this year’s International Festival of Glass.
The wings, entitled ‘Solace’ were designed and made by glass artist Layne Rowe with support from bespoke metal worker and former college friend Ryan Harms.
The three x three metre sculpture is made of a custom-made metal frame with over 100 individual spokes which in turn host 100 individually designed glass feathers.
The artist, who uses a lot of drawn glass in his artwork, developed the technique for the feathers in his studio. It takes a whole day to make just four feathers and the sculpture features around 110 of the individually handcrafted pieces.
Solace was originally displayed at Saint Albans cathedral and formed the backdrop to the cathedral’s pandemic memorial service. Since then, it has visited Ely Cathedral and the Chelsea Flower Show.
It will be housed at the cone until late September, to coincide with the Crystal Mile Contemporary exhibit at Blowfish gallery.
Although temporarily closed to visitors for construction works, visitors to the site can position themselves in the entry way and take an angel themed ‘selfie’ with themselves standing between the wings.
As part of the International Festival of Glass, staff at the cone are offering free hardhat tours of the cone over the bank holiday while the maintenance works are pending. Some individual white feathers will also be available to buy.
Councillor Simon Phipps, cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, said:
We’re so glad to be participating once again in this year’s International Festival of Glass.
There’s a huge programme of events and activities, with the cone offering craft sessions, workshops, exhibitions, tours and talks. Whether you’re a glass aficionado or just want something fun to do with the family, it’s a perfect day out.
People can read more on artist Layne Rowe at www.layneroweglass.co.uk and on Blowfish Gallery at www.blowfishglassart.com