Anthony Scala,
United Kingdom

Man leaning beside a display of reflective glass spheres
Man leaning beside a display of reflective glass spheres

Anthony is a glass artist whose sculptural practice explores the relationship between art, science and perception. Combining hot glass sculpting with precision cold-working techniques, he creates intricate optical glass sculptures that investigate the interaction of light, reflection and form. His work draws on concepts from theoretical physics, challenging the boundaries between physical reality and visual perception.

Curatorial Profile

Abstract orange geometric glass sculpture suspended above a circular metal base

Anthony’s artistic practice brings together the precision of traditional glassworking techniques and an intellectual engagement with the principles of physics and optical perception. Working at the intersection of art and science, he creates sculptural objects in which transparency, reflection and refraction become essential elements of the visual experience. His work invites viewers to reconsider the relationship between an object's physical structure and the images it produces.

Originally trained in Architectural Model Making, Anthony developed a strong foundation in precision, spatial understanding and technical craftsmanship. This background led to his interest in optical glass and cold-working techniques, which have become central to his artistic practice. Over more than two decades, he has refined an approach distinguished by meticulous attention to detail and a sophisticated understanding of the optical properties of glass.

His sculptures combine hot glass sculpting with precision cold-working techniques, allowing him to explore the passage of light through the material. Through carefully constructed forms and refined surfaces, Anthony creates complex visual effects in which reflections, distortions and shifting perspectives challenge the viewer's perception of depth and space. The interaction between the physical object and its optical appearance becomes a defining characteristic of his work.

Alongside his sculptural practice, Anthony has been actively involved in glass education, teaching both hot and cold glassworking techniques for nearly two decades. His experience as an educator reflects a sustained commitment to technical knowledge and the development of contemporary glassmaking.

Anthony's work occupies a distinctive position between scientific inquiry and sculptural expression. By exploring the optical possibilities of glass, he creates objects that extend beyond their physical boundaries, revealing the complex relationship between material, light and perception.

House of Glass Gallery

Artist Statement

Two amber glass vases with trumpet-shaped tops and intricate hair-like textures on a white background

Physics has long provided the inspiration and framework for my creative practice. I am drawn to theoretical concepts which attempt to describe our fixed reality as emergent, issuing from a state where our rules of order do not apply. Rather than illustrating scientific ideas through the language of mathematics, my sculptures provide a material space in which to encourage abstract thought through light, form and perception.

Selected Works

Abstract black-and-white geometric sculpture with a sphere and curved triangular forms on a pedestal
Abstract black-and-white geometric sculpture with a sphere and curved triangular forms on a pedestal

Coriolis II

Abstract gold, white, and silver glass sculpture with interlocking curved bands on a reflective surface
Abstract gold, white, and silver glass sculpture with interlocking curved bands on a reflective surface

Gold Annulum

Black geometric sculpture with water droplets on a mirrored pedestal against a dark background
Black geometric sculpture with water droplets on a mirrored pedestal against a dark background

Dark Matter

Faceted orange-red crystal sculpture suspended in a metal stand over a round reflective base

Amber Nexus

Abstract close-up of a faceted red and black geometric crystal with glowing orange highlights

Amber Nexus

Large faceted orange-red crystal sculpture mounted on a metal stand and circular base

Amber Nexus

Abstract black-and-clear glass sculpture with curved shards and reflective spheres on a pedestal

Bound State

Collection of clear glass spheres containing gold and silver metallic inclusions on a white surface

Erratics

Pair of amber glass vases with translucent flared tops and intricate textured fibers

Amber Entangled

Abstract close-up of tangled golden-yellow grass or plant leaves.

Amber Entangled

Abstract black geometric pyramid sculpture displayed on a glossy circular pedestal

Grey Nexus

Collection of clear glass spheres with gold and silver foil inclusions arranged on a white surface

Auri

Abstract blue and silver metallic sculpture with curved geometric forms on a glossy oval base

Coriolis

Reflective chrome spherical abstract sculpture with intersecting bands and a pointed fin on a gray background

Orrery Scent Bottle

Pile of glossy black and clear glass sculptures with white swirled patterns on a round mirrored platter

Echoes of Future Ghosts

Abstract black-and-white glossy sculptural form covered in intricate white geometric lines on a gray background

Echoes of Future Ghosts

Iridescent crystal pyramid sculpture containing a glittering geode on a black pedestal

Particle

Faceted blue crystal sculpture with bubbles on a black pedestal, illuminated against a dark background.

Particle