Peter takes a painterly approach to the surface design of his glass. Large fields of solid color are balanced by more intricate and defined design elements. Layers of contrasting colors and patterns merge and then separate, creating windows in which to view the depths below. The imagery, although intentionally abstract, recalls life beneath the ocean. Forever moving and sustaining life, the ocean is a constant source of inspiration for him to draw, and has provoked such well know glassworks as the WAVE series, the BARNACLE series, and the SHORELINE SHARD series.
Another strong force influencing Peter's work is music. He appreciates a wide variety of music and use music to renew his spirit and free his soul. Creating music, as in creating handblown glass, involves an orchestrated team of players. Each player is fine tuned and synchronized under the direction of the maestro; each contributes his personal rhythm in response to the group's rhythm and each is dedicated to the final piece - a masterpiece , that will move its audience and have them call for more! The culmination of these inspirational forces can be seen in their Oceanic Concert Series; which is a visual testament to their love of the sea and music. Some of the pieces in this series suggest musical "sea instruments" - like trumpets (i.e. OCEAN JAZZ sculptures), while others might make one think of miniature "sea symphonies" (i.e., SEA SYMPHONY sculptures) and "waves" that rock and roll (i.e., ROCK & ROLL WAVE vessels).
Peter is proud of the fact that Ridabock Glass is a small studio, geared towards creating original, one-of-a-kind work. The production is limited because Peter is involved in the execution of every glass piece. The work is such a personal expression of Peter's, that only he can make it. It is this personal touch that makes Ridabock pieces truly works of art, of the highest quality. Superior quality design and craftsmanship are Peter's first priority, and this is why his hands can be seen in every glass piece they make; a claim not all glass artists and studios can make.
Peter is always creating new visual and technical challenges for themselves, and hope that some of the joy in making his glasswork is passed on to the people who purchase it. |
