An individually handmade blue fused glass whale tail sculpture, created as a one-of-a-kind piece in the medium size. Part of my Whale Tales Collection.
Translucent aqua and turquoise flow through the tail, overlaid with a deep blue-charcoal composition of curling and upward-moving forms. The design follows the sweep of the flukes and rises from the centre, giving the piece a strong sense of movement, balance and direction.
Placed near natural light, the colours become especially luminous and reveal the softly textured character of the kiln-fired glass.
Guiding Waters is individually composed rather than mechanically repeated. Although this colourway and form may be revisited, the movement of the glass and the placement of the design ensure that no future piece will be completely identical.
This listing is for the exact medium whale tail shown in the photographs. Only one is available.
THE STORY BEHIND THE WHALE TALES COLLECTION
The Whale Tales Collection grew from my return to New Zealand and the enduring pull of the sea. The form holds memories of the waters surrounding Aotearoa, a friend’s delight at seeing a whale for the first time, and the sense of connection embodied in a piece of pounamu given to me by glass colleagues who had become whānau.
The flowing surface decoration draws on my own responses to pattern, movement and carved form. Each composition is developed individually to follow the shape of the tail, so the markings change from one whale to the next rather than being mechanically repeated.
Guiding Waters reflects the clarity and changing colour of the sea, while its upward-flowing design suggests movement, direction and a quiet sense of being carried home.
DISPLAY AND CONSTRUCTION
The whale tail is individually formed and kiln-fired before being shaped and finished by hand. It rests securely on a handmade clear-glass stand with a polished chrome fitting.
Place it near natural light to bring the translucent aqua and turquoise glass to life, or display it against a pale background where its sculptural outline and dark pattern can be clearly seen.
Approximate dimensions, including the stand:
22 cm wide × 16 cm high
As the piece is individually handmade, its dimensions, colour distribution, pattern and markings are unique. These variations are part of the character of the work and are not faults.
The glass tail separates from its stand for secure, compact delivery and requires careful reassembly on arrival.
Place the tail gently into the chrome fitting and hold it in the intended position while gradually tightening the screw. Tighten only until the glass is held securely—do not overtighten.
Some whale tails are shaped to lean back at a slight angle when correctly positioned. This is an intentional part of their sculptural form rather than a fault.
Once assembled, always lift and move the piece while supporting both the glass tail and its base. Never carry it by the glass alone.
Designed and handmade by Jan Simpson in her West Sussex studio.
This listing is for the exact medium Guiding Waters whale tail shown in the photographs. Only one is available.
