Esther Patterson
Esther Patterson is an artist, designer and founder of Curiousa, a Wirksworth-based lighting studio known for its distinctive handblown glass pendants and chandeliers. Her practice grew from a desire to move beyond graphic design and explore the possibilities of materials, colour and form. After returning to university to study decorative arts, she initially worked across textiles and bone china before discovering glassblowing, a process that allowed her to bring these interests together.
For over a decade, Patterson has developed Curiousa’s playful and colourful approach to lighting, working closely with glassblowers to create pieces that combine functional design with a strong sense of individuality. Her practice continues to evolve through an exploration of ceramics, with slip-cast and hand-turned elements now offering new possibilities for form and material within her work.