What Is a Glass Light Sculpture? Exploring Colour, Glass and Light

Glass and light have a natural relationship. Glass can transmit, reflect and transform light, while colour changes according to its intensity, surroundings and the position of the viewer.

My glass light sculptures developed from an interest in exploring these qualities through multiple layers of painted and fired glass combined with LED light.

Painting With Glass and Light

Each sculpture is constructed from individual layers of glass that I paint and fire in a kiln. The painted surfaces are then assembled so that light passes through several layers simultaneously.

Rather than illuminating a single image, the LED light travels through the different painted surfaces, allowing colours and forms to overlap and interact. Areas that appear opaque from one position can become transparent from another, while colours intensify or change as the viewer moves around the work.

This creates a sense of depth that would be impossible to achieve on a single painted surface.

Spectroscopic Continuum

My Spectroscopic Continuum series explores the relationship between colour, landscape and perception through painted and fired glass and light.

Landscape is often the starting point, but the finished sculptures are not intended to describe a particular place. I use colour, abstraction and layered imagery to create environments that shift between something recognisable and something imagined.

Light is not simply used to illuminate the sculpture. It becomes part of the material of the work itself.

A Changing Artwork

One of the qualities I find most interesting about working with glass and light is that the artwork is never entirely static.

Natural light, artificial light and the viewer’s position all affect the way the layers are perceived. Reflections appear and disappear, colours overlap and the space between the individual sheets of glass becomes part of the image.

For me, glass light sculpture provides a way of bringing together painting, sculpture, colour and light within a single work.

View my Glass Light Sculptures →

What Is Reverse Glass Painting? Hinterglasmalerei in Contemporary Art

Reverse glass painting, also known as Hinterglasmalerei, is a centuries-old technique in which an image is painted directly onto the reverse side of a sheet of glass. Unlike painting on canvas, the finished work is viewed through the glass, giving the colour a particular depth and intensity.

The process requires the usual order of painting to be reversed. Details and highlights that would normally be added towards the end must be painted first, followed by subsequent layers of colour. Once completed, the glass becomes both the surface of the painting and the means through which it is viewed.

My Approach to Reverse Glass Painting

I began working with reverse glass painting as part of my continuing exploration of colour, light, landscape and perception.

My Hinterglasmalerei works combine oil paint with gold leaf. Painting onto glass creates a very different quality from working on aluminium or paper. The smooth surface allows colours to remain intense, while the reflective qualities of the glass and gold leaf mean that the work changes according to the surrounding light and the position of the viewer.

The technique also requires a different way of thinking. Because the painting is constructed backwards, there is an element of uncertainty during the process. I am often unable to see the final image properly until the work is turned around.

Landscape, Colour and Imagination

Landscape is a recurring starting point throughout my work, but I am not interested in simply recording a particular place. I use remembered landscapes, observations, drawings and imagined spaces to create environments that sit somewhere between abstraction and representation.

In the reverse glass paintings, colour becomes particularly important. Reflections, areas of gold and layers of saturated colour shift as the light changes, allowing the image to appear different throughout the day.

For me, this combination of an historic technique with contemporary imagery is what makes Hinterglasmalerei so interesting. It provides another way of exploring the relationship between painting, light and the physical surface of an artwork.

View my Reverse Glass Paintings →

Studio Collection 2026 | Original Oil on Aluminium Paintings & Contemporary Glass Sculptures at Special Collector Prices

Studio Collection 2026 | Original Oil on Aluminium Paintings & Contemporary Glass Sculptures at Special Collector Prices

If you’ve been thinking about acquiring an original work of contemporary art, this is a wonderful opportunity to collect one-of-a-kind paintings and illuminated glass sculptures directly from my London studio.

For a limited period, I am offering a carefully selected collection of original oil on aluminium paintings alongside my Spectroscopic Continuum glass sculptures and the larger illuminated work Oriental Luminescence – Jasmin Pavilion, all available at special collector prices.

Every artwork is unique. Once sold, it will not be repeated.

Contemporary Oil Paintings on Aluminium

My oil paintings on aluminium explore landscape, colour, memory and imagination through luminous layers of oil paint applied directly onto aluminium panels. The reflective metal surface creates a unique depth and vibrancy that changes beautifully with natural light throughout the day.

Included in this studio collection are works from my Chromatic Drift series together with paintings including The Proposal – Orange Tree, Cataclysm 1 & 2, and River House. These original paintings have all been significantly reduced, creating a rare opportunity to acquire museum-quality contemporary artwork at exceptional prices.

Whether displayed in a private home, apartment, office or public collection, these paintings are designed to bring colour, atmosphere and a strong sense of place to contemporary interiors.

Spectroscopic Continuum – Contemporary Glass Sculptures

Alongside the paintings, I am also offering a selection of illuminated glass sculptures from my Spectroscopic Continuum series.

Each sculpture is individually hand-painted using traditional Reusche glass enamels and silver stains before being kiln-fired and assembled with a custom LED light panel. Multiple painted layers of glass create constantly changing reflections, colour and depth, transforming according to the surrounding light and the viewer’s perspective.

Inspired by landscapes, botanical forms and natural vegetation, these sculptures exist between painting, sculpture and light installation, making them equally suited to collectors, architects and interior designers seeking distinctive contemporary artworks.

Oriental Luminescence – Jasmin Pavilion

The collection also includes my larger illuminated sculpture Oriental Luminescence – Jasmin Pavilion, inspired by the pioneering layered glass techniques of Louis Comfort Tiffany.

The sculpture combines hand-painted and kiln-fired glass, antique mouth-blown glass and a concealed LED illumination system to create a richly layered contemporary artwork that bridges painting, sculpture and architectural glass.

A Rare Opportunity for Collectors

My work is held in museum, corporate and private collections internationally and has been exhibited in London, New York, Copenhagen, Miami and Omaha.

Whether you are an established collector, first-time buyer, interior designer, architect, curator or art consultant, this studio collection offers an opportunity to acquire original contemporary paintings and illuminated glass sculptures directly from my studio.

Collectors who enjoy discovering artists represented by leading contemporary galleries such as David Zwirner, Victoria Miro, White Cube, Hauser & Wirth, Lisson Gallery, Pace Gallery and Gagosian may also enjoy exploring the work of independent British artists creating ambitious, museum-quality contemporary art.

The collection may also be of interest to private art collections in London and internationally, corporate collections, hotels, luxury residential developments and commercial interiors seeking original contemporary artwork.

If you discovered my work through Instagram, an art influencer, a gallery recommendation or by searching for contemporary landscape painting, contemporary glass sculpture or original British art, welcome—I hope you enjoy exploring the collection.

Studio visits are always welcome by appointment at Cockpit Studios, Bloomsbury, London, where both the paintings and illuminated glass sculptures can be viewed in person.

If you would like further information, additional photographs, or would like to reserve a piece, please get in touch through my website.

Urban Art Fair Brixton 2026 | Contemporary Art in London for Collectors, Galleries, Curators & Interior Designers

If you’re searching for things to do in London this weekend, contemporary art in London, or looking to discover original artwork for your collection, home or next project, I’d love to welcome you to Urban Art Fair Brixton.

Taking place along the tree-lined Josephine Avenue in Brixton, Urban Art Fair is one of London’s most popular outdoor contemporary art events, bringing together over 100 artists exhibiting original paintings, sculpture, ceramics and prints. It offers visitors the opportunity to meet artists, discover new work and purchase directly from the studio.

This year you’ll find me at Stand 5JC, where I’ll be exhibiting all of my currently available original artworks, including large-scale oil paintings on aluminium and selected works on paper. It’s a rare opportunity to view my available collection together outside my London studio, with many works available at special exhibition prices.

As an award-winning contemporary artist based at Cockpit Studios, Bloomsbury, my work has been exhibited internationally and is held in private and public collections in the UK, Europe and the United States. My paintings explore landscape, memory and imagination through expressive colour, light and layered mark-making, creating immersive worlds that balance abstraction and representation.

I always enjoy meeting art collectors, gallery directors, curators, art consultants, art advisors, interior designers, architects and hospitality specialists interested in acquiring original work, discussing commissions or developing future exhibition opportunities.

Whether you’re building a private collection, sourcing artwork for a residential or commercial interior, or simply looking for what’s on in London this weekend, I’d be delighted to welcome you to the stand and talk about the stories behind the paintings.

Urban Art Fair Brixton

Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 July
10am – 6pm
Josephine Avenue, Brixton, London SW2
Stand 5JC

Open Studios 2026: Sharing New Glass Works at Bloomsbury & Deptford

This summer I had the pleasure of opening my studio for both the Cockpit Bloomsbury Open Studios and Cockpit Deptford Open Studios, welcoming visitors, collectors, curators and fellow artists into my creative space. These events are always an opportunity to share not only finished works but also the ideas, experimentation and craftsmanship behind my practice.

My current work explores light through painted, stained and reverse-painted glass, alongside oil on aluminium. Many visitors were drawn to the way the illuminated glass transforms with changing light, revealing layers of colour, transparency and reflection that cannot be experienced in photographs alone. Conversations with collectors of contemporary glass and painting continue to shape the direction of my work.

It was particularly rewarding to meet visitors connected with organisations including the Crafts Council, Arts Council England, the Contemporary Glass Society, the Contemporary Art Society, and collectors with an interest in innovative glass practice. As my work continues to evolve, I also hope it reaches the attention of internationally respected galleries such as the David Zwirner Gallery, whose programme has long championed ambitious contemporary artists.

Open Studios remind me that making art is as much about dialogue as it is about creating objects. Every conversation, question and shared response helps build new connections and opens future opportunities for exhibitions, commissions and collaborations.

Thank you to everyone who visited, collected work, or simply spent time discussing contemporary art and glass. Your encouragement makes these events invaluable.

If you were unable to visit, you can explore my latest contemporary paintings, glass sculptures, stained glass and reverse glass paintings in the gallery section of www.helenbrough.com. I look forward to sharing new work and future exhibitions throughout the coming year.

Delighted to have joined The Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers . Here is the update

The Cockpit Experience

Strengthening Our Ongoing Partnership with Makers and the Future of Glass

Members of the Company and guests were welcomed recently to The Cockpit Experience, an inspiring insight into the studios, makers, and creative energy that define Cockpit Bloomsbury. As one of London’s leading incubators for independent craftspeople, Cockpit continues to play a vital role in sustaining the skills and disciplines that lie at the heart of our Livery’s heritage.

The visit offered a timely reminder of the deep and continuing relationship between Cockpit, the glass artists who work there, and The Glass Sellers Charity. Each year, the Charity strengthens this partnership by providing The Glass Sellers Bursary,  50% funding towards the cost of a Cockpit studio space for a glass artist in their first year, giving an emerging maker the stability and environment they need to establish their practice. This long‑standing commitment has helped multiple artists take their first professional steps within Cockpit’s creative community, and the impact of that support was evident throughout the studios — in the confidence of the makers, the quality of their work, and the vibrancy of the craft ecosystem that Cockpit sustains.

Artisan Freeman – Helen Brough

A Testament to Craft, Innovation, and Artistic Vision

Among the many exceptional makers encountered during the visit, Helen Broughoffered a particularly compelling insight into contemporary glass practice. Her work — defined by its architectural precision, luminous colour, and sculptural interplay with light — exemplifies the kind of innovation that Cockpit nurtures and the kind of excellence the Glass Sellers Charity seeks to champion.

Viewing her pieces within the working environment of her studio provided a deeper appreciation of the discipline, experimentation, and creative rigour behind each finished work. Artists like Helen demonstrate why the Charity’s continuing relationship with Cockpit is so valuable: their work pushes the boundaries of the material while honouring its traditions, ensuring that glass remains a vibrant and evolving art form.

Shared Purpose and Long‑Term Partnership

The alignment between Cockpit and the Glass Sellers Charity is clear and enduring. Both organisations champion:

• Craft excellence and the highest standards of workmanship

• Education and opportunity for emerging makers

• Innovation within traditional materials

• The preservation of specialist skills

Our annual studio‑funding contribution is a cornerstone of this partnership, but the relationship extends far beyond a single grant. It is a shared commitment to sustaining the craft ecosystem, supporting the next generation of glass artists, and ensuring that the skills central to our Livery’s history continue to thrive in the modern world.

Looking Forward

The Cockpit Experience reaffirmed the importance of this ongoing collaboration. It highlighted the value of long‑term support, the impact of sustained investment in makers, and the opportunities for future engagement between the Company, the Charity, and Cockpit’s community of artists.

As we look ahead, the relationship between Cockpit, the glass artists it nurtures, and The Glass Sellers Charity remains a vital part of our mission — ensuring that the craft of glass continues to evolve, inspire, and enrich the cultural life of the City and beyond.

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Crouch End Open Studios 2026: A Must-Visit for Collectors, Art Lovers and Galleries

If you’re a collector, curator, or simply passionate about contemporary art, Crouch End Open Studios 2026 is an unmissable event in North London. Taking place on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May, this highly regarded annual art trail—now in its 21st year—brings together 59 artists across 40 venues throughout Crouch End.

Known for its vibrant and diverse artistic community, Crouch End Open Studios offers a unique opportunity to discover new work, meet artists in person, and experience art in an intimate and engaging setting beyond the traditional gallery space.

This year, I will be exhibiting alongside six other artists at:

Holy Innocents Church
134 Tottenham Lane, London N8 7EL

I’ll be presenting a new body of large-scale contemporary paintings, alongside a curated selection of small watercolours and fine art prints. My work continues to explore colour, movement, and imagined landscapes—bridging the space between abstraction and memory.

For collectors and galleries, the Open Studios format provides a valuable chance to encounter work at its source, gain insight into artistic processes, and build direct relationships with artists. With a wide range of disciplines on show—from painting and sculpture to glass and mixed media—the trail offers both breadth and depth for those looking to discover new talent or acquire original artwork.

Whether you’re actively collecting, curating future exhibitions, or simply seeking inspiration, this weekend is an opportunity to engage with contemporary art in a meaningful and personal way.

Come and visit, explore the trail, and see the work in situ—I’d love to welcome you.

Fresh Art Fair Alexandra Palace 2026 – Contemporary Art in London

I’m delighted to be exhibiting at Fresh Art Fair at Alexandra Palace, London, one of the UK’s most exciting events for discovering and collecting contemporary art.

Event details

📍 Alexandra Palace, London

🗓️ 30 January – 1 February 2026

Fresh Art Fair is a brilliant destination for art collectors, local London visitors, and anyone looking to buy original artwork in person. It’s also an inspiring fair for interior designers and architects sourcing statement pieces for residential and commercial spaces.

My Work at Fresh Art Fair

At the fair I will be presenting a curated selection of my contemporary paintings (oil on aluminium) alongside sculptural glass works, and pastel on paper drawings , exploring luminous colour, atmosphere and emotional landscapes.

Whether you’re building an art collection, searching for a standout artwork for your home, or specifying art for an interior design or architectural project, I’d love to welcome you to the stand and share more about the work.

Visit Fresh Art Fair London

If you’re looking for a London art fair this winter, Fresh Art Fair at Alexandra Palace is the perfect place to discover new artists and invest in contemporary art.

✨ I’d love to see you there — and if you’re a collector, designer or architect interested in a commission, please feel free to get in touch via HelenBrough.com.

Chromatic Drift: New Paintings and Drawings Exploring Colour, Light, and Emotional Landscape

A new series of paintings and drawings titled Chromatic Drift marks the latest evolution in my contemporary art practice. The series explores colour as a moving field — shifting atmospheres where light, memory, and landscape dissolve into one another, forming emotional landscapes that invite reflection and calm.

Created intuitively, Chromatic Drift responds to a world shaped by ongoing global tensions, offering moments of stillness through abstraction. Colour becomes both structure and sensation, drifting across the surface like weather systems, light passing through trees, or places recalled rather than observed. These works are not fixed landscapes, but states of being — spaces we move through emotionally.

Rooted in contemporary abstract landscape painting, the series sits within a broader international conversation around colour-led abstraction, perception, and memory. This dialogue can be seen in the programmes of leading contemporary galleries such as David Zwirner Gallery, where artists explore the poetic and psychological potential of abstraction. Chromatic Drift aligns with this lineage while remaining deeply connected to nature, materiality, and lived experience.

Selected works from Chromatic Drift will be presented at Fresh Art Fair, London (30 January – 1 February 2026) — a significant platform for collectors, curators, and interior designers seeking contemporary painting and drawing. Experiencing the works in person reveals subtle shifts of colour, surface, and light that are central to the series.

Alongside this, the practice continues to engage with established UK galleries including Tripod Gallery, London, known for supporting innovative contemporary artists working across painting, drawing, and sculptural media.

Chromatic Drift offers a quiet, luminous counterpoint to uncertainty — landscapes not as destinations, but as moments of pause. In these works, colour becomes a form of grounding, and abstraction a way to hold serenity.

All available artwork will be posted on my website Shop on January 30th 2026

Bespoke Glass Light Commission Inspired by an Historic Building on the Isle of Skye

This recent bespoke glass light commission was created for a private collector who had recently acquired an historic building on the Isle of Skye, Hebrides, Scotland. Using a photograph of the building as the starting point, the piece translates architectural detail, atmosphere, and sense of place into a one-of-a-kind contemporary glass light.

The commission demonstrates how custom glass lighting can respond directly to architecture, landscape, and personal narrative. Designed to sit in dialogue with the building itself, the glass light becomes both a sculptural artwork and an architectural element, making it particularly relevant for architects, interior designers, heritage property owners, and collectors seeking site-specific commissions.

Glass interacts uniquely with light, space, and structure. In this project, the muted stone of the building, shifting Hebridean skies, and surrounding landscape informed the colour, layering, and luminosity of the glass. The result is a work that enhances atmosphere while remaining deeply connected to its architectural context.

Each bespoke commission is developed through close collaboration and can respond to photographs, architectural drawings, lighting plans, or site visits. I create bespoke glass lights and sculptural glass artworks for private residences, heritage restorations, contemporary new builds, and architectural projects in the UK and internationally.

Enquiries for custom glass art and lighting commissions are welcome.

Spectroscopic Continuum: Contemporary Glass Light Boxes

The Spectroscopic Continuum series is a body of contemporary glass light boxes exploring the relationship between light, colour and perception. Inspired by spectroscopic imaging and scientific research, each work is constructed from painted and fired glass, layered to create depth and optical movement when illuminated.

Light functions as both material and subject, placing the series within current conversations around light-based contemporary art, conceptual abstraction and sculptural installation. Each piece operates as a luminous object that subtly shifts as the viewer moves through space.

Contemporary Glass Art in London

London is a leading centre for contemporary glass art, with galleries such as Vessel Gallery supporting innovative, material-led practices. The Spectroscopic Continuum aligns with this approach, presenting glass as a conceptual and sculptural medium rather than a decorative one.

These glass light boxes are suited to contemporary art galleries, curated exhibitions, architectural interiors and private collections.

Available Works & Shop

Selected works from the Spectroscopic Continuum series are currently available to purchase and can be viewed in my online shop.

👉 View the Spectroscopic Continuum works for sale

The series is of interest to:

• Contemporary art collectors

• London glass galleries

• Curators working with light and sculpture

• Interior designers seeking bespoke illuminated artworks

Commissions and site-specific works are also available.