Adrienne Woods

As an artist I have a deep interest in sociology which serves as the basis of my artistic curiosity. I am fascinated by humans as social animals and the world in which we interact. Glass is a medium that I find has endless possibilities to explore these themes, and in turn never fails to teach me more about myself.

I began my academic career enrolled at Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario. I spent 3 years exploring the world of sociology. I found myself engrossed in themes of social interaction and social norms. In the end I found myself dissatisfied with theory and really felt the need to explore my creativity and perhaps something hands on. I decided to pursue Creative Arts at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario. Taking courses in everything from life drawing to graphic design, I was able to explore many areas of the arts. However it wasn’t until taking a weekend course at Blown Away glass studio in Elora, Ontario in 2008 that I had my first experience working with hot glass. It was there that I was quickly mesmerised and knew it was the beginning of something amazing.

Later in 2009 after completing Sheridan’s 2 year program, I moved across Canada to attend the Alberta University of the Arts. While completing my bachelors in Fine Arts- Glass major, I had the wonderful opportunity to explore the medium off glass. I worked with many forms of glass including blown, sandblasting mirrors, and a little kiln forming. The majority of my work consisted of heavy research based theory with glass execution, using glass as a sort of social experiment. My final year thesis was an exploration in how we form “the other” and how to increase social empathy. Through a series of life size images sandblasted on mirrors that covered an entire room, the viewer was invited to step inside and question their perception of the different type of people they interact with everyday. The installation of mirrors served not only as the canvas, but also the catalyst for literal and self reflection.

Since graduation I have been teaching myself flame-working to explore the world of borosilicate glass and jewellery making. I find the most joy making curling rock pendants on the torch. I continue my blown glass exploration and skill building through studio rentals at Glen Williams Glass in Georgetown, Ontario. Over the past few years I have been working with dried and bleached driftwood and incorporating it into blown work.

Currently I have started the most audacious journey of my life, having left my job of 10 years to explore a life on the east coast of Canada. There I am the owner/operator of two Airbnb properties, allowing me to pursue glass in a larger capacity and bring my glass ideas to life.