Artist Jonathan Fuller recycles the ocean-polished sea glass that he finds along Cornwall's coastline to create vibrant, yet calming, works of art. “These frosted shards are tumbled by the elements against rocks and sand, creating smooth-shaped textured jewels,” Fuller told us. “It comes from a variety of sources including industry, sea defences, cargo spills as well as general littering. The most commonly found colours are greens, browns and clears from the bottling industry.”
Now that a lot of glass packaging is being replaced by plastic, sea glass is harder to come by. But when he is able to find these discarded shards, Fuller takes the well-worn pieces and embeds them into wood panels to create intricate shapes and designs. Many of his sculptures look like blossoming flowers when they are complete, while others take on the shape of a perfect circle. No matter what the design, each unique specimen evokes the relaxing qualities of the sea with varying blue, green, and white tones.
“It's a very addictive hobby that requires patience and a good eye,” says the artist when discussing his nautical artwork. “I feel by collecting sea glass I am making use and recycling these discarded jewels. Some days I can walk miles and find nothing and on other days handfuls, you just never know what you're going to find.” In any case, Fuller concludes, “We are quite insignificant in relation to the ocean and it needs to be treated with great respect.”
Jonathan Fuller: Website
My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by Jonathan Fuller.
