Glass Artist Jenny McLeod lives outside of Auckland - away from the hustle and bustle. Her home studio has a 'vibe' - the feeling of the islands. Tropical plants, gorgeous garden art (of course!) water features and a thatch roof patio. You can't help but feel relaxed and laid back in her space. Which is why her works reflect what she surrounds herself with. NATURE.
When asked about the inspiration for her work , Jenny says "New Zealand is not only a country of great natural beauty, but it is a country rich in cultural diversity. These are all constant reference points to my work, which is created with a pacific inspiration, for a modern setting."
Not only does Jenny make pieces for outdoor garden areas she also makes homewares. She creates gorgeous glass wall necklaces mixed with natural elements of copper and flax. For the kitchen her platters are simple and clean with hints of botanical and oceanic influences - perfect for your signature cheese platter.
To see some of her works visit the KINA website.
How long have you been creating? Has it always been in this medium?
I Graduated from a Diploma in Craft and Design (with distinction in glass) in 1992 from Carrington Polytec, so a good 20 something years! Fused glass is my main medium but I do enjoy incorporating other materials.
Who taught you or how did you learn your craft?
I had lots of tutors during that time of study, but the small block of glass fusing in amongst the fibre arts, jewellery, ceramics etc really secured it for me. This was taught by a very inspiring women Lyndsey Handy.
If you weren’t creating your art works what would you be doing?
I think if I wasn’t making glass I would be doing something with food!
Have you passed your techniques onto others?
I did teach a group of students in Wanganui many moons ago. A lot of people keep asking me to teach but I have been busy with my kids and still have so many things to make and so little time.
Is there a specific piece you have created that is dearest to you heart? If so, why?
Mmmm all the big works I make are dear to my heart and it feels weird once they have sold. You put so much in to the creation and there is always worry about installation, the hanging up, the weight, the transporting of large fragile items etc the list is long and makes all the works dear to your heart at the time.
If you could plan your perfect day what would it consist of from start to finish?
Oooh the perfect day would definitely start with a sleep in and cuddles with my 4 & 6 yr olds. Leisurely breakfast (made by someone else) some reading and then a museum or art gallery, good coffee, some kid free studio time and then a late lunch or early dinner with a group of girlfriends and lots of bubbles!
What is your favourite meal and who would prepare it for you?
I love food and I love recipe books and pictures of food and food programmes! It is hard to pinpoint my favourite meal but Bluff oysters and Salmon have featured recently.
If you were to be an animal which one would you be?
A loved, well fed cat who gets fresh fish and can curl up in the sun and sleep for ages and then stay out all night – or not depending!
