Bernard Heesen

Bernard Heesen’s style expresses his almost shy sensitivity, his distinctive sense of humor, and the anarchic pleasure he derives from daily life. Indefatigable and seemingly without a clear line, he explores the characteristics of glass, always striving to create beautiful and functional things. Gifted with the indomitable energy of a craftsman, he believes that no piece is too difficult or too large for him to attempt. Many of his creations seem almost surreal. The glasses fabricated by Heer Jeekel (1839–1885) from Leerdam, who developed an early form of industrial pressed glass, inspired Heesen to use this same technique. Heesen also occasionally works with pieces found at flea markets or in attics, which he combines with his own ornaments.