Fran Anderton to open new glass studio in Castlecliff

Glass artist Fran Anderton is opening her new Castlecliff studio and gallery. Photo / Stuart Munro

Fran Anderton's light-filled Castlecliff gallery provides a perfect setting for her glassworks and she will open it to the public for the first time this weekend.

The gallery and studio is the culmination of a new build she started in November last year.

"It's a Versatile garage and I've added recycled timber and a window with a wooden frame between the studio and gallery."

Friends and the public will be able to view new work from the raw state to the finished pieces and have the opportunity to buy directly from the maker.

Anderton is an alumnus of the Wanganui Glass School and moved from Dunedin in 2000 to complete the glass design and production diploma.

"I bought this property near the beach in Castlecliff in 2004.

"Initially the glass was crafted in a small studio in the back of my garage with a casting kiln and minimal machinery.

"The new building has large, bi-fold doors opening on to a sheltered garden area and is a joy to work in."

A range of hot blown and cast glass pieces including bowls, paperweights, bottles and some seconds will be on display and for sale.

The gallery at 138 Karaka St, Castlecliff (look for the rainbow striped flag), will be open from 2pm to 5pm this Saturday and Sunday.