Cindy, a former physical education teacher, has been working with glass since 1995, training herself to become what she is today, an award-winning glass artist. Through trial and error, countless hours of research and reading, Cindy’s experimentation and persistence has enabled her to become extremely knowledgeable in the art of glass. Over time she has built up an expansive work portfolio and met a plethora of fellow artists who have guided her and helped the transition from craftsperson to artisan.

Her mentorship under glass artist Shar Feil Moorman in 2010 saw the significant development in skills, refinement of techniques, and the ability to access different artistic methodologies. As a result, Cindy could now confidently delve into more conceptual based work, utilising these new techniques to effectively convey more meaningful messages within her artwork. In addition to using the glass medium for purely “production” pieces, she was now able to make artistic choices more relevant to her aesthetic and conceptual intent. Cindy’s personal and largely independent journey from high degree of uniqueness and diversity within her body of work.

The image above is of Cindy’s very first glass piece, a photo frame put together in 1995, and a result of her desire to create a personalised frame that would reflect her father’s true spirit. From this creative experience, the initial positive reaction from others, as well as the desire to search out a lifestyle alternative to teaching – the development and growth of the Section Glass Gallery & Cafe began.

Now with her name defining the space, Cindy Poole Glass Gallery has grown into an established gallery and successful arts based tourism attraction and business, showcasing one of the most diverse studio glass arts practices in Australia. Cindy’s more recent exploration into the technical and creative possibilities associated with the recycling of bottle glass waste, has established her as an innovative leader in the area of artistic sustainability and glass recycling.  This has enabled Cindy  to challenge the perceptions associated with the use and value of bottle waste, contribute towards sustainability solutions, live her art form and continually grow as an artist.