Creative Evolution: Sketching on the Blowing Iron
This summer showcased Peter Layton & Tim Rawlinson's experimental work and pieces from series that Peter has redeveloped or retired. The archive of Peter's visual library forms the bedrock of his creative process.
Watch the video below to see Peter introduce some of the collection.
Space Art means many things - from lurid graphics to exquisite digitally enhanced photo-montages. Unfortunately, for us at London Glassblowing, it has yet another connotation. The 'art' of shuffling the stunning art objects we are creating from one shelf to another in the relentless effort to make space in the studio. Since the way we create our designs is to 'sketch on the blowing iron', we have many objects to store for future reference, rather than simply turning a page in our sketch books.
Work by Peter Layton, Tim Rawlinson & James Alexander
So in this showcase, Creative Evolution, Peter and Tim released gorgeous pieces to swoon over and enjoy for decades to come - unique tangible objects to cherish in these uncertain times.
Peter Layton & Tim Rawlinson in the studio with the team
Development pieces by Tim Rawlinson
Our Stories
Our Glass Community Reflect on Peter Layton
To mark fifty years of London Glassblowing, we asked artists, collaborators and friends to share what the studio has meant to them. Their answers span five decades - from first encounters at the hotshop to lifelong friendships. What emerges is a portrait of a community built around one man's vision, and the remarkable things that vision made possible.
Fifty Years of Fire: Celebrating Peter Layton and London Glassblowing
For half a century, London Glassblowing has transformed contemporary glass art - pioneering new techniques, supporting generations of artists, and establishing a studio at the forefront of innovation. This milestone year offers a moment to reflect, to reminisce, and to celebrate the extraordinary impact that has helped shape the world of glass.
Silent Auction Stories: Staff Favourites
Our 2026 Silent Auction celebrated fifty years of glassmaking with works from Peter Layton's personal 'Highlight' collection alongside archival pieces from our resident and guest artists. The gallery team shared their favourites and the stories behind them, from a never-before-seen Fabrica platter to the smallest Portal Tim Rawlinson has ever made.