A HAMPSHIRE-born artist has launched a new business venture producing crafted glassware, Tate Slyfield writes.

Former Colour Factory artist Alex Hoare’s new range, Point Line Plane Glassware, is aimed at homes or businesses.

Ms Hoare has been working with glass since 2006 by changing colours and textures of natural light into simple geometric patterns and designs.

The philosophy behind Point Line Plane Glassware – named after Russian artist Wassily Kandinsky – is to extract colours, light and textures from some of Ms Hoare’s favourite places including Hampshire and West Cornwall.

After working for Test Valley Borough Council, she wanted to return to her studio to which the city council has provided £1,000 in start-up grants to help pay for marketing and photography.

Ms Hoare, who received a business start up grant from Winchester City Council, said: “My work as an artist in the past has often relied on public funding. With the cuts to public funding it has become necessary to look for alternatives to make a living.”

Now Ms Hoare is showcasing her newest designs with a range of exhibitions.

A selection of work is part of the Fusion exhibition at Rum's Eg in Romsey until May 2. The same range will be on display at Hobson Choice Bulthaup in the Broadway until mid May.

“By harnessing the skills and experience I have both as a maker and in business/administration I want to build a product that appeals to a wide audience, not just the gallery visitor, and to bring the colours and light of the beautiful Hampshire countryside into many people’s homes,” Ms Hoare added.

“I am really grateful to Winchester City Council as the business start up grant has enable me to pay for some first class photography from local photographer Dave Gibbons, and marketing materials which I hope will help to spread the word.”