The work of Toronto artist T.M. Glass opens a door to other ways of considering photography by exploring the historical, technological and aesthetic conditions of the medium to stretch it beyond its traditional definition. Utilizing cutting edge photographic technology, the artist works with each image to create complex details and textures using a digital painting technique developed throughout the years.
An alumnus of Ontario College of Art (now OCAD University) in the fine art program with a major in sculpture and a minor in painting, the artist decided to focus on photography in 2010. Propelled by the desire to create works of art that focus on the investigation of beauty in nature and how mathematics and geometry govern the nature of beauty, the artist strives to create beauty though proportion, symmetry and harmony.
Stemming from a deep, personal engagement in horticulture, the artist’s primary subject matter became the persistent allure of flowers. Glass pairs flora from renowned gardens with historic vessels from museums and distinguished collections. The artist works directly with curators to arrange photography sessions and understand the vessels’ history. The resulting lens-based digital paintings seem like a traditional photograph from afar, however, upon closer inspection the depth of the work is revealed in colours and textures unique to Glass’ practice. A single work may demand months of production time.
Recent works have involved collaborations with the Royal Lodge and Royal Collection, London, England; Jardin de Métis / Reford Gardens, Québec; the Gardiner Ceramic Museum, Toronto; the Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto; and Jaipur City Palace, India. Glass’ works have been showcased in multiple exhibitions and are held in private collections in Canada, the United States, Britain, France, Australia, and India.
Download the artist biography