I did this one at the beginning of the year. Two monks walking - the inspiration came from a photo I took when I was in Laos a couple of years ago. One of the things that I am discovering about myself is that I prefer figurative work. This comes as a surprise, because I've always been drawn to more abstract images, yet I get more satisfaction from making something feel alive, even though it is made from glass.

I went to Edinburgh at the weekend (and will be going again this weekend :) lucky me) I got some nice shots that might translate well to mosaic. I would particularly love to do something with the chap holding a daffodil - he was part of a protest by the group Anonymous, who were campaigning on the 12th April against Scientology.

Reflecting on the Divine

30cmx30cm. It shows a little statue, arms raised in prayer, eyes closed in reflection. When I started this one I was doubtful about whether it would work, I was fussy, and picked pieces off here and there. Being as stubborn as I am though, I carried on and eventually reached that sweet spot where I knew everything was going to be ok. At that point it becomes more of a physical battle to get to the end, in contrast with the earlier intellectual struggles . I'm glad I did it though.

The inspiration for this one comes from Japan (again!) - wandering around the older parts of Tokyo revealed a wealth of temples and small shrines. Such statues were tucked away in little corners, if you were willing to look. To me, this mosaic, while depicting Eastern spirituality, calls to mind Western religious art. Fitting I suppose, that I was making it with a degree of reverence that I don't normally have...

I used Italian glass tiles and stained glass, on board, with a strip of copper around the edge. The stained glass strips at the side are there to suggest a triptych.