The work of Matthew Curtis continues to explore a dialogue between surface, form and colour.  The glass pieces that Matthew creates are blown as a three colour overlay and when cooled, the opaque skin of the object is mapped out, marked, then incised in a reductive and controlled manner.  In his current body of work Matthew explains that he is “exploring the line itself as a mark.”  In some pieces the lines are varied and in others they are expressed repetitively with meditative precision, in an effort to explore the ephemeral nature of human endeavour.  In some cases the line explores a relationship more directly to the form, whilst referencing notions of landscape.  The physical act of marking and cutting, opens the interior of the vessel, allowing the transparent interior to be experienced through shifting light, at times quiet and still, at other times, bursting with vibrancy and energy.

Matthew Curtis began his career in glass blowing under the expert guidance of glass artist Robert Wynne in the early 1990’s.  In 1996, Matthew was selected as a finalist for the prestigious RFC Glass Prize as well as being awarded the People’s Choice Prize.  In 2002, he was recognised for his significant contribution to contemporary craft, his work included in the exhibition ‘Material Culture’ curated by Robert Bell for the National Gallery of Australia. In 2003 Matthew was the only glass artist selected as one of twenty-one artists for the National Sculpture Prize and Exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia.  One of Australia’s most dedicated and exciting glass artists, Matthew’s work is represented in the collections of the National Gallery of Australia, Wagga Wagga Art Gallery (National Art Glass Collection), NSW and in collections in Germany, Singapore and the United States.