Crystal amaze! Ric’s glass art at Erewash Museum

Ric Raithby – who bills himself as “The Illumin Artist” – uses shards and offcuts that would otherwise end up among the 400 tonnes of glass sent to landfill every week just in the East Midlands.

His creations will feature in a free exhibition called Illuminate from 5th September to 12th October in the Erewash Museum’s Lally Gallery.

An invitation to residents reads: “Ric Raithby’s passion for repurposing glass comes to life in this stunning exhibition.

“Join us for an immersive experience and explore his remarkable Shards of Light sculptures, illuminated mirrors and dragonglass art.”

Ric, from Ilkeston, describes working with glass as his “life’s work”. He told how he chips, grinds and engraves chunks of crystal to create “colourful, crazy and exciting shapes”.

Ric said he hoped his exhibition would “amaze” local people – adding: “I’m sure that my work will be like no other sculptures you have ever seen.”

Erewash Borough Council Deputy Leader, Councillor Becca Everett, who is Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “Ric’s glass art is truly spectacular – and is sure to have people flocking to our award-winning heritage and culture hub.”

The Erewash Museum near Ilkeston Market Place is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 4pm. Refreshments are on sale at its Dalby House Café.