Say Hello to… Jackie Whitnell

Today we meet Jackie for the first time who join us with her glass creations at Worthing Charmandean on Sunday 2nd December.

Q1. Introduce me and my brand

Hi, my name is Jackie and my brand is in using raw glass sheets and a mix of glass types and turning them into stunning, colourful, unique fused glass creations.  I learnt my craft at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation in West Sussex which is internationally recognised and was hooked. I absolutely love making glass creations; it is interesting, fun and therapeutic!

Fused glass is glass that has been fired (heat processed) in a kiln at a range of high temperatures from 593°C to 816°C. Many techniques are used depending on the finish required.

My brand includes unique bespoke items for example: coasters, bowls, candle screens and many abstract glass creations to meet the client’s brief and budget.

I am a glass enthusiast with other interests in photography and colour schemes. I also have an interest in interior design with a City and Guilds distinction status.

I run beginners and intermediate workshops. I am a qualified lecturer in higher education with post graduate teaching qualification.

Q2. How would you describe your style and creations?

My style includes contemporary, colourful and abstract designs. I like to use contrasting and complimentary differing types of glass in my creations. No two pieces are the same and that is what is so interesting about my work.  Many are unique and unusual; but also functional.  Many creations are a fusion of glass types to make gifts, sometimes using recycled glass.

Many creations include: light catchers, candle screens, coasters, lattice dishes, platters and wall art. Plus recycled bottles for a variety of uses, including clocks and cooking spoon holders.

Q3. What do you enjoy most about your work?

I love the alchemy and magic upon opening the kiln after firing to see the results. I enjoy the process from the cutting of the original raw glass to the completed fired item.

I love the excitement of putting together complimentary and contrasting coloured glass of all types.

I really enjoy being able to teach people and use my teaching expertise. I love the fascination and differing experiences from teaching, and watching students learn and experiment.

Q4. What can we expect to find on your stall?

Contemporary and colourful glass items mounted in complementing frames.

Pieces of artwork standing in blocks of wood.

Coasters of varying designs and colours                

Small and large dishes of various sizes, colours and designs

Candle screens

Recycled fused bottles for use as platters, spoon rests and clocks

Assortment of necklace pendants

Christmas decorations amongst many other items.

Q5. Are you looking forward to taking part?

I am really thrilled to be given this opportunity to take part in the Christmas Fair and particularly the fact that it is raising money for St Barnabas Hospice; a charitable organization very close to my heart! I am looking forward to sharing my enthusiasm for my craft with others.

Plus I am really looking forward to seeing other sellers’ artworks and crafts.  I also think I will benefit from talking to the customers and have the opportunity to share and receive feedback on my work.

Q6. Do you have a best seller?

I have had several commissions for bespoke items including:  coasters and matching large dishes, candle screens, platters for parties and wall art pieces  for birthday presents, retirements and other celebratory occasions.  I think the coasters and  bowls may prove popular along with the Christmas decorations.   

Q7. Any plans or ambitions for the future?

I would like to continue to sell my glass creations and share my expertise and enthusiasm via glass workshops. I hope to expand to small business status at some point in the future. I would also like to be involved in other craft fairs.

Q8. Do you have a motto or inspirational quote?

‘Don’t count your years; make your years count.’   

Q9. Describe your Xmas in 3 words?

Family, fun and colourful

Q10. How can we find out more about you?

Follow on Instagram.  https://instagram.com/jackiewhitnell

Q11. What if we see something on your stall but we prefer different colours?

Designs of all items can be created especially for you and your individual requirements e.g specific colours. I would be happy to take orders on the day with a small deposit. Your item would be made as a unique bespoke piece especially for you!