Glenn Woods Herbrand

Glenn Woods and Keith Herbrand create crystalline glazed pottery that unites the worlds of art and science. Their collaboration explores the delicate balance between form and surface, beauty and function, spontaneity and control. At the heart of their work is the crystalline glaze, a medium as unpredictable as it is captivating. These glazes produce patterns of zinc-silicate crystals that grow within the glaze matrix during extended kiln cycles, much like frost blooms across a winter window. Glenn’s vessels, most often in porcelain, are shaped by influences from the natural world: the swell of gourds, the layering of flower petals, the textures of sea creatures. Through carving, piercing, and beading, he transforms clay into forms that seem alive, echoing growth and organic movement. Keith brings an emphasis on functionality. His bowls, jars and vessels embrace clean, strong lines, while showcasing the drama of crystalline surfaces. Together, the two expand the expressive range of crystalline pottery. By incorporating inclusion stains and post-fire reduction techniques, they push chemistry to new frontiers to bring about beautiful pieces of art.