The captivating world of art often finds its inspiration from the most unexpected places, and for Barbara Morris, it's the vast and mysterious ocean that fuels her creativity. Based in James Bay, Victoria, Morris has developed a unique artistic style that showcases the beauty of the sea through the medium of crushed glass.
The Spark of Inspiration
Morris' artistic journey began at a young age, with her mother's gardening and a simple set of watercolors. This early exposure to art and nature laid the foundation for her future passion. Moving to Vancouver Island seven years ago, her love for the ocean grew, and with it, a unique art form emerged.
The Magic of Sea Glass
Sea glass, with its polished edges and vibrant colors, caught Morris' eye during her beach strolls. She collected these treasures, eventually amassing an impressive collection. The way sea glass shines in the sunlight inspired her to experiment with crushed glass, and the results are truly mesmerizing.
When creating her ocean-themed pieces, Morris starts with a base of aqua green or deep blue, representing the ocean's depths. She then uses brown glass to create the sandy bottom, and with a simple wave of her hand or a stick, she forms the waves, adding depth and movement to the piece. The addition of clear glass and seashells collected from the beach completes the scene, and a final layer of resin seals the artwork.
The Challenges and Rewards of Crushed Glass Art
While the end result is stunning, working with crushed glass comes with its own set of challenges. Safety is a priority for Morris, who wears gloves and a mask to protect herself from sharp edges and resin fumes. Despite these precautions, the process allows for endless creativity and unique outcomes.
Morris' passion for art extends beyond her own creations. She has been teaching art for over 20 years and finds great joy in sharing her skills with others. Her monthly classes at Seahorse Cafe in Brentwood Bay are a testament to her dedication to spreading artistic inspiration.
A Deeper Connection to the Ocean
What makes Morris' art particularly fascinating is the way it connects people to the ocean. Her pieces capture the essence of the sea, its beauty, and its mysteries. By using natural elements like sea glass and seashells, she creates a sensory experience that transports viewers to the beach, inviting them to appreciate the ocean's wonders.
In my opinion, Barbara Morris' crushed glass art is a beautiful example of how inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. Her work showcases the power of nature's beauty and the endless possibilities of artistic expression. It's a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for connecting with our environment and appreciating the world around us.
