ART

Like an alchemist, artist Barry Hood transforms common things into something precious. His glass pieces are pure and organic, incorporating natural found objects and often implying a clash of elements. "In all of his work,Barry is concerned with a force of nature and this raw energy that nature has," says Brandon Reintjes, curator of exhibitions at the Montana Museum of Art and Culture in Missoula, Montana. "He's really aware of the seductive potential of glass, but he tries to downplay that and to make something that is more quiet". Hood likens his sculptural work to the philosopher's stones of ancient Chinese traditions that were used for meditation. They are an invitation to consider the mystery, the spirit and the power of the natural world.