dreya glass
Cornwall
Was born in Africa and lived in Lagos until her 9th birthday when her family
moved back to the UK and more specifically Cornwall. Moving to Cornwall at such
a key age shaped her passions and future in so many ways. Having always been in
swimming pools and the sea in Africa the love of water intensified on the
beautiful beaches and in the crashing Atlantic surf of the Cornish Coastline.
The sea and its different moods have always been in her life. Being a keen
surfer in her teens her love of playing in and with the elements became all
encompassing when she discovered the thrill of kitesurfing. A pioneer in the
early days of the sport she set up one of the first schools in the UK, and
competed on the world circuit with her highest ranking being 3rd in the world.
She also enjoyed other kiting challenges and set a world record by kitesurfing
from Cornwall to Ireland ( under her maiden name Wharry), She discovered Glass
by accident, through her landlady whilst studying at Falmouth art college,
falling instantly in love with the look and the process of working with glass
she decided to specialise in Architectural Stained Glass at Swansea. Though not
actively working with glass during her sporting career, the fascination never
left. Now retired from competition, glass is back as the focus of her passion.
“Its colour, its reflections and translucent quality instantly captured my
heart. To me it has a similar quality to water. It is enigmatic you can look at
it, or through it. It is there and not there and can create a potent visual
effect, either opulent or subtle. I love the challenge of designing for
different buildings, interiors and people, whether a large architectural piece
or an intensely personal small piece. “ Dreya
