Ken Howell has worked as a freelance artist since forming his Cantillon Howell arts practice in 2000. He exhibits in the UK + Internationally. His style + methodology have developed during a personal journey that has included working alongside some of the most prominent glass art masters of the world.
Experiencing the philosophical work ethic of Bernard Dejonghe in 2003, Ken was inspired by the artists approach to his work. These influences are visible in Ken’s artworks + methodology. In 1996, Sweden’s Bertil Vallien selected Ken’s work to be one of the inaugural glass sculptures included in the Northlands Creative Glass Collection in Scotland.
Ken worked as research assistant to USA artist John Lewis in 1998-99 + was instrumental in the technical design + production of a large scale Sculptural Glass installation in the entrance hall to the Learning Centre at the University of Wolverhampton. His research involved working for over two years with skilled glassmakers + optimizing the technology of the Stuart Crystal glass factory in Stourbridge to create ‘The Legger’ a sculptural installation in the Merry Hill Shopping Centre Stourbridge. This work being an element of his Master of Art studies into large scale glass art.
EDUCATIONAL PROJECTS
Ken has recently worked with 6th form students at the George Salter Collegiate Academy in the West Midlands. The student’s ideas were developed through glass design + hands on glass art workshops to create an impressive installation using traditional skills + state of the art lighting technology. The sculptural glass artwork welcomes visitors to the reception area as they enter the main entrance to the school.
Versatility is at the core of this artists work. Recognising + implementing the needs of each project. Inspiring individuals + group participants to achieve tangible outcomes, whilst creating a fun journey of learning. Ken has worked on a wide range of exciting projects, leading glass casting sculpture workshops in South Africa, hosting a Healthy Living project at the West Bromwich Albion Football Club Study Centre + stimulating members of communities to take ownership and personal responsibility of their own contribution to their social environment. Initially working in the West Midlands, he has led various art projects + worked with many schools helping to raise literacy + numeracy skills for all age groups.
Special Education Needs student workshops have been become a paramount ingredient of the artists practice. Using this extensive experience + unique methodology, the artist’s workshops have contributed to students developing their skills, raising their levels of achievement + personal esteem.
THE STUDIO + GALLERY
The Yesism artist studio + gallery is located in Great Malvern, deep in the heart of ‘Elgars’ Worcestershire.
The gallery exhibits artworks of Cantillon Howell, including the Teardrops Collections. The studio is also a great meeting place for discussions on art, education + philosophy.