About
Biography
Brad Pearson has been working with hot glass since 1990. Soon after graduating college he opened his first glass studio in his parents garage. The studio quickly outgrew the small space and he co founded The Works , a co- operative studio with a Blacksmith and a woodworker. For seven years the studio thrived with the energy created by operating in close proximity to different creative people and mediums. During this time Brad went to work part time for Research glass incorporated, a small scientific glass blowing firm. It was working there that he developed his love of precision and detail in small-scale works. In 1999 the large glassblowing studio was sold, and the adventure of lampworking full time began. Since that time Brad has pushed the boundaries of design and small-scale hot glasswork. His work is included in several private and corporate collections. Currently Brad works in a small backyard studio. He also teaches intermediate and advanced classes around the country.
Artist Statement
Since graduating from the fine crafts department of VCU, I have vigorously pursued hot glass as a career. Throughout my career as an artist, my work has become smaller and more complex. Several years ago I began to focus on the bead as a template from which to explore my ideas. Using the bead as a form has allowed me to explore texture, pattern and color within a framework that is limitless. Making beads is a natural progression for my interests in glass. Hopefully I have proved that small-scale work can be captivating and innovative. For me, it has certainly provided a rewarding experience.
My current work draws inspiration from many diverse cultures. I have drawn on Tibetan prayer wheels; ancient writing and Celtic designs, just to name a few of the sources. In most parts of the world, beads hold a great spiritual and cultural significance. I have tried to hold the viewers attention on a very small object by instilling some of this spirituality and mystery into my work. I view each piece as a miniature sculpture that retains its core function as a bead.
