Maker's bio

“For me, teaching glass is an act of generosity. Each class is a chance to share knowledge, encourage curiosity, and create a space where creativity can flourish. The greatest reward is seeing students surprise themselves—leaving not just with a piece of glass, but with a sense of accomplishment and a spark to continue.” A member of the Contemporary Glass Society CGS and Heritage Crafts Association HCA, Jan brings over 30 years of experience into both heritage stained glass and contemporary fusing and kiln casting techniques. Originally from New Zealand and raised in Hong Kong, her journey with glass began in 1995 during an evening class in Adelaide, Australia. That first experience sparked a lifelong passion, leading her finally to completing a BA (Hons) in Glass and Ceramics at the University for the Creative Arts, Farnham—bringing fresh perspectives to a well-rooted practice and evolving her skills into casting and moldmaking techniques. Jan's commissioned work can be found in both public and private collections and, in recent years, she has been developing her work within ecclesiastical and major architectural settings. Her work brings together heritage stained-glass techniques with contemporary approaches such as lampworking, fusing, and casting. She is currently exploring the integration of three-dimensional casting into stained glass panels—developing a distinct, contemporary voice grounded in the traditions of craft and her work has been gaining recognition for the distinctive casting techniques she is currently developing. Based in Bognor Regis, her purpose-built garden studio is where she works to commission, develops new collections, and welcome sstudents into a quiet, creative space. Jan has been sharing skills in stained and fused glass for over 25 years, both in adult education and through small, hands-on workshops. Many students return year after year—not only to refine their technique but to enjoy the sense of focus and fulfilment that working with glass brings. For Jan, both making and teaching are about offering something lasting—whether it’s a beautifully crafted panel or the gift of new knowledge and confidence in your own creative voice. Whether you’re new to glass or looking to deepen your skills, she looks forward to welcoming you to the studio.