The Phoenix Award Committee has named the artist Karen LaMonte as the 52nd recipient of the Phoenix Award and the Glass Person of the Year 2024.
Karen LaMonte is a contemporary artist known for her work with glass, among other materials.
This award celebrates her achievements in glass, highlighting her ability to masterfully manipulate this medium to explore themes of identity, beauty, and the human condition.
Since its inception in 1971, the Phoenix Award has honoured those who redefine the boundaries of glass in both industry and art.
Ms LaMonte’s work includes life-sized intricately detailed glass dresses, each bearing the impression of a body within (see left).
Meanwhile, her ‘Floating World’ series uses the kimono to explore ideas of culture, perception, identity and beauty, and her ‘Nocturnes’ series delves into themes of night and absence.
Most recently, she has turned her focus to weather, collaborating with climatologists to create sculptures based on real weather data.
Ms LaMonte is also a leader in environmental sustainability, consistently working to ensure her practice is carbon-negative.
Her influence on the art of glassmaking has set her apart as a source of inspiration for artists around the world.
Ms LaMonte’s recognition as The Glass Person of the Year is not only a nod to her artistic achievements, but also to her role as a leader in the ongoing dialogue between art and nature.
Banquet Chair Aleksander Pinda and Phoenix Chairman Erik Muijsenberg visited Ms LaMonte at her studio in Prague, Czechia, on March 25 to personally inform her of her selection as the 2024 Phoenix Award recipient.
The award will be presented to Ms LaMonte by Mr Muijsenberg during a banquet and award ceremony scheduled for Friday, October 11, in Prague, Czechia.
Additional information and images of Ms LaMonte's work can be found on her website at: www.KarenLaMonte.com
