Collect at Somerset House
A Golden Anniversary at Collect
London Glassblowing celebrates 50 years
27 February - 1 March
We're thrilled to return to Collect 2026, marking a momentous milestone: our 50th anniversary. Since Peter Layton founded our studio in 1976, we've been at the forefront of elevating glass from industrial medium to collectable art form and this golden anniversary showcases the extraordinary vitality defining contemporary British glass today.
Our presentation celebrates the remarkable diversity that has always been our hallmark: a kaleidoscope of artistic voices, techniques, and aesthetic approaches demonstrating glass's boundless creative possibilities. We'll present work from 17 exceptional artists whose practices embody this rich variety.
Exciting debuts: James Maskrey, with over 30 years in hot glass, creates work that can take on the visual qualities of porcelain, liquid, even printed photographs. Helen Restorick brings a unique perspective informed by her background in medicine and genetics, exploring flow patterns with scientific rigour and artistic flair.
The Drayton Egg by James Maskrey
Joining them are masters including Colin Reid, whose kiln-cast sculptures reside in over 60 museum collections worldwide. David Patchen presents spectacular murrine and cane techniques; Tim Rawlinson explores light and optical effects; Elliot Walker creates symbolic compositions inspired by Old Master paintings; Heike Brachlow casts subtle polychromatic shapes; and Louis Thompson has a new series of Baobab tree sculptures.
Viridis by Dr. Heike Brachlow
Join us at Somerset House to experience why glass remains one of the most seductive and versatile mediums in contemporary craft.
Booth Talks at our Stand
Thursday 26 February, 16.30 - James Maskrey
Artist James Maskrey discusses his practice and unveils The Drayton Egg, a reimagined piece created especially for London Glassblowing's 50th anniversary, exploring its concept and creation.
Saturday 28 February, 13.30 - Peter Layton and Tim Rawlinson
Founder Peter Layton and artist Tim Rawlinson discuss 50 years of London Glassblowing, exploring the studio's legacy, its impact on British glass, and their vision for the future.
Our Stories
Introducing Sally Scott
From winning the London Glassblowing Prize at New Designers 2025 to selling out her debut exhibition with us in our Christmas exhibition, Sally Scott's journey showcases emerging talent at its finest. Read more about her work experience prize and time with our team of glass artists.
Handcrafted Olive Oil Bottles for Restaurant Story
We were delighted to collaborate with celebrity chef Tom Sellers and his acclaimed Restaurant Story to create bespoke olive oil pouring bottles inspired by the elegant shape of an olive.
A Golden Christmas at London Glassblowing
We are marking the countdown to our 50th anniversary with a gold-themed Christmas exhibition. Founded by Peter Layton in 1976, the studio has evolved into one of Europe's longest-running glass galleries. Artists have created special pieces incorporating gold to celebrate this milestone "Golden Year" as the studio prepares for 2026's anniversary celebrations.
