Klára Horáčková

Exploring the world through glass

• Klára has mastered kiln-forming techniques
• She creates delicate organic or geometric shapes
• She teaches glassmaking at AAAD in Prague

Klára Horáčková experimented with different techniques of glassworking to find her own methods within kiln-forming by fusing thin rods or glass shards. Her works evoke both natural liquid structures and inorganic clusters. Some seem almost otherworldly, resembling basalt surfaces or rock formations, while others have a cosmic appearance. When working with mirror glass Klára often takes inspiration from geometrical forms. She also creates large installations for interiors and public spaces. As an assistant professor at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design (AAAD) in Prague she passes on her glassmaking skills to her students.

Interview

©Tomas Slavik

©Anna Pleslová

What does teaching mean to you?

It is a very lively, inspiring environment and the glass studio has a long and famous tradition. I am glad that I can be part of it. For me, teaching means responsibility, respect and keeping your mind and eyes open to new ideas all the time.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

I find inspiration mainly in general principles – the organic and inorganic world, geometry, architecture, people, society, relationships, psychology. I am glad if my objects work on multiple levels and connect differently with different viewers.

Why do you use kiln-forming techniques?

Originally, I studied cold-working, but at the moment the technique I enjoy working with most is kiln-forming, since it gives me the greatest control over the results and allows me to discover more and more possibilities for working with glass.

What do you aim to achieve in your work?

For me, my work is a way of perceiving and exploring the world. It hides intuitive logic that emerges on the surface during the creation process. It shows a view of the world from a different perspective, finding new contexts in everyday life.

Klára Horáčková is a master artisan: she began her career in 1995 and she started teaching in 2008

Works

©Jaroslav Kviz

©Gabriel Urbánek

©Anna Pleslova

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©Anna Pleslová

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