Artist’s Biography

While studying for her BA in Glass at West Surrey College of Art and Design at Farnham, Sue began to develop her interest in cast glass, and later developed her ideas whilst studying for an MA at the Royal College of Art in London.

The work is mainly one off bespoke pieces for clients and the final work is developed through research and engaging with the client on a journey. Discussions with the client are an important collaborative part of this process.

Each commission is site specific and has a relationship to the space and the people that use it. Texture, light and glass colours are used to transform new or existing spaces.

Projects have ranged from both the public and private sectors, including hospitals, theatres, galleries and museums. An increasing number of briefs have come through ‘Commissions North’. The work also varies in scale from awards, gifts and small private commissions to large-scale pieces of public art for interior or exterior spaces. Another area of the business is working as an artist within both primary and secondary schools, running glass workshops and residencies. Work is either created for chosen areas around the school environment or is made as part of their curriculum.

Sue began her career in the North East as a freelance lecturer at Sunderland University. Since 1989 her commission led practice has been based at 36 Lime Street, a John Dobson grade II listed building, originally a flax factory that is now home to an eclectic mix of artists, designers and craftspeople. Her move to a much larger studio five years ago overlooking the river has allowed her business to expand. It is also the ideal environment to take part in the various practical glass workshops that she runs.


Client’s Recommendation

Sue Woolhouse offered our children the most fantastic opportunity to do something new. With her enthusiasm our children were able to: -

• Visit Sue’s studio in the Ouseburn valley where they designed and made their own small piece of glass.
• Design a glass panel for school and be involved in every aspect of making it.
• Work with a ‘real’ artist, using new materials and techniques they had never previously experienced.

If you are looking for a creative experience with a wow factor this is the one for you. Felton First School, Northumberland.


To download a CV click here