Peter Viesnik (New Zealand), glass

Peter Viesnik is a New Zealand glass artist who is known for his exuberant and free-flowing work, often inspired by scenes in nature. He was born in London, in 1943, and moved to New Zealand in 1974. He began glass-blowing in 1979, and in 1980 he co-founded The Hot Glass Company in Devonport, Auckland, with Peter Raos. The company was one of the first glass studios in New Zealand, and Viesnik and Raos were instrumental in developing the art form in the country.

Viesnik has worked in a variety of techniques, including glassblowing, fusing, and casting. His work is often characterized by its use of bright colors and organic forms. He is particularly known for his paperweights, which often depict scenes of underwater plants and animals. Viesnik's work has been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions throughout New Zealand, Australia, the United States, and Europe. He more... has also been awarded numerous prizes for his work, including the Qantas Art Award in 1987.

Viesnik is a highly respected member of the New Zealand glass community. He has served as the president of the New Zealand Society of Artists in Glass, and he has taught glassblowing at several art schools and colleges. He is also a regular workshop leader and lecturer.

Viesnik continues to work in his studio in Grey Lynn, Auckland. His work is in the collections of many museums and galleries around the world, including the Auckland Museum, the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and the Corning Museum of Glass. less...