Fine art of fusion

Whether it is melting glass over a burner to shape it into a flower or its delicate floral paintings on porcelain teacups, Yumi Barker has mastered the technique of both these diverse art forms. This petite Japanese lady has come a long way from being actively involved in the fashion and media business to being an artiste in her own right.

A friend introduced Yumi to porcelain painting about seven years ago. She went to the Porcelain Art School in Malaysia and continued learning this art form during her stay in Australia. In Hawaii, she met glass artist Chris Kurs and learned glass-fusing techniques under his guidance.

"I have learned from masters all over the world and that is how I have devised my own style of combining porcelain painting and glass fusing," says Yumi. She always had a fascination for porcelain, like Wedgwood, and so decided to create something similar. "Paintings on porcelain are heirloom pieces, if handled with care they can be used in families for 100 to 200 years." she says. Pieces of colourful jewellery with flowers and bubbles lie on display at her studio. She enjoys porcelain paintings more than glass, as glass is very fragile and difficult to handle.

Yumi is a member of the International Porcelain Artists and Teachers, and of Dubai International Arts Centre. She regularly participates in the craft fairs in Dubai and exhibits in Asala at Le Meridian, Dubai.

Yumi does work on commission basis for collectors and one of the most unusual requests she has had is from a collector who was fascinated by penguins. "I am presently making penguin designs on plates and cups for my client".

She regularly teaches basic porcelain painting and holds workshops for beginners as well as intermediates. The first workshop will begin this month end and continue until December. For details call Yumi Barker on 04-3940349.