Tom Rowney, Ruby Tesserae series, blown glass Murrini style techniques, 2024. 36 h x 25 w x 25d cm, Photo: Adam Mc Grath.

Sabbia Gallery presents a solo exhibition of new works in glass by Tom Rowney.

Rowney has been practicing glassmaking for more than three decades. The pieces in Tesserae reference works from the Budgeree glass factory in Port Adelaide where he first began his training.

He was inspired by the rich traditions of Venetian glassmaking, and his work draws from the history of the craft, blending classical techniques with contemporary influences to explore the qualities of glass – transparency, opacity and the interplay of bold, colourful combinations. These works invite the viewer to engage closely with each piece, discovering the nuances of the pattern within the form.

Rowney says, “My aim is to create beautiful, decorative objects that provide the viewer with a sense of wonder, prompting the question—how did he make that?”