Inspirational Islanders: Timothy Harris Glass Designer and Maker

Isle of Wight Studio Glass has remained internationally pre-eminent in studio glass design and production for over half a century. Today, from the studio at Arreton Barns, master glassmaker Timothy Harris continues the family tradition. Attracted at an early age by the heat, fire and smoke of his father’s studio, as soon as he could hold a blowing iron Timothy began to experiment for himself. Inspired by the Island’s breath-taking scenery, flora, fauna and magical coastlines, he still finds new ways of working with hot glass – constantly experimenting in his quest for perfection.

“My first experience of the Island was as a young teenager when in 1972 I moved over with my younger brother and parents. The Island has offered me a very safe, friendly, happy environment full of inspiration to grow into and work, and it continues to do so for our ever-growing family.

My favourite place has got to be the Undercliff, which has influenced me in my work as a glass designer and maker giving me much pleasure and enjoyment, as it still does. Running along the southern coast from Niton to Bonchurch, it’s a great place for a walk and you can feel like you’re stepping back in time in parts.

The Isle of Wight has some beautiful beaches, but Binnel Bay (also in the Undercliff) was always a place to seek inspiration for my work and solitude. It’s a hidden gem, rugged and unspoilt. My children enjoyed many a time amongst the rock pools when they were smaller.

Cuisine-wise the Island has a very diverse choice of eating and drinking establishments most of which are a delight to explore and enjoy. I’m not sure I could narrow it down to just one favourite.

One of my great distractions is the Isle of Wight Scooter Rally which takes place each year over the August bank holiday weekend. With over 5,000 riders, it is the largest gathering of scooters in the world. Celebrating all things scooter-related and iconic British cultures – it’s like a carnival on two wheels!

It might sound predictable, but if I only had one hour on the Island, my first choice would always be to go to my studio and make a piece of glass.”

For more information and to shop, visit isleofwightstudioglass.com.