Bibi Smit

BIO

Bibi Smit is a Dutch artist known for creating sculptures that explore the patterns and movement in nature and the fluidity of hot glass. Her works are an ode to the powerful force and calmness found in nature. By being able to control all processes in the glassblowing studio, her work shows an acute attention to detail and technique. Smit’s work has garnered recognition for its ability to evoke emotional responses from viewers while also sparking contemplation about our relationship with the natural world.

She grew up in The Netherlands before attending West Surry College of Art and Design in Farnham, UK (BA 1988), where she was first introduced to glassblowing. Completely fascinated by this material and technique, she went on to learn more from Willem Heesen (Holland), David Kaplan (Scotland) and Boyd Sugiki (Pilchuck, USA). She lives and works in the Netherlands.

THE WORK

The sculptures are an ode to the heartbreaking simplicity of ordinary things. The intention of capturing a fleeting moment in nature is often imbued with a sense of impermanence, movement, and vitality. These works seek to embody a particular moment when a fallen petal or fruit starts to shrivel and twist. By focusing on these colorful shapes and gentle curves, the artist encourages viewers to slow down, take notice, and find joy in the mundane aspects of their surroundings.