Jo Downs is one of the world’s most respected fused glass designers. Working from her Cornwall studio, Jo’s work draws inspiration from the beautiful coastal landscape while her advanced fusion techniques allow for the creation of abstract designs of great individuality and depth.
Along with her popular range of handmade giftware and statement interior pieces such as wall panels and art frames, Jo has developed her studio to undertake large architectural and interior projects. This unique facility and her innovative designs have earned her commissions for cruise liners, churches, hotels and corporate headquarters. She has also enjoyed hundreds of private commissions, producing windows, mirrors, wall panels and other artworks for a variety of homes.
Turquoise glass fish by Jo Downs Glass
Turquoise glass fish, wave theme - by Jo Downs Glass
How did Jo Downs start out in the industry?
Straight from graduating with a degree in Glass and Ceramic Design from Sunderland University, Jo started her career designing large scale installations for corporate clients like hotels and cruise liners. Within a couple of years she had set up her own studio in London and then Stuttgart, Germany, and has since establishing herself as one of the world’s leading fused glass artists.
Where is she based?
In 2001 Jo moved to Tintagel in Cornwall. She set up a new studio in the market town of Launceston, and in 2005 she opened the very first Jo Downs Handmade Glass gallery in Padstow. Now she has a string of galleries across the county, having added St Ives, Fowey, Tintagel, and a studio gallery at her workshop in Launceston, where fans of Jo’s work can see her latest and most progressive designs. She has also opened her first gallery in the South East, near Ascot, where clients can shop or take part in glass fusing workshops.
What is her inspiration?
Since moving to Cornwall, Jo’s work has been inspired by the endless beauty of the landscape. You’ll find the colours, shapes and textures of the sea, beach and rolling moorland in works from tiny jewellery dishes to full scale wall panels, and of course in large scale installations like her famous Shoaling Fish collections.
Is there a team or is it a one-person band?
Jo has always believed in investing in creative talent, and as Lead Designer she works with a highly trained team of fused glass artists at her Launceston studio. The most skilled amongst them even have their own Artisan range of Jo Downs glass, where they can show off their own ideas.
What type of project’s does Jo undertake?
Jo designs new collections each year for her galleries, but much of her time is spent working on private commissions, which are her real passion. She has created glass chandeliers, swimming pool floors, giant glass oyster shells and stunning bespoke wall installations. Anyone who knows Jo knows that she loves a creative challenge!
How would you sum up your company?
A place to find objects of real beauty and originality! You won’t find work like Jo’s anywhere else in the world.
You can browse Jo's work online at https://jodowns.com/