Hannah Gibson ‘Glass Renewed’ exhibition at Museum of Brands

A new exhibition, Glass Renewed: The Art of Hannah Gibson & the History of Glass at The Museum of Brands in Notting Hill, London, presents artworks by internationally recognised, award-winning glass artist Hannah Gibson, alongside outstanding examples of glass from the Robert Opie collection. Highlights include an ancient glass vessel, Victorian Codd bottles and contemporary rarity: an exclusive limited edition Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra.

The Museum of Brands display brings together spectacular contemporary artworks and historic glass to explore the base materials and sustainability of glass. Alongside pieces from Hannah’s Recycling Narratives: Whispering Sweet Nothings series, selections from the Robert Opie glass collection will delve into the history of glass making, the beauty of glass, and the future of its production. This exhibition will also feature information and samples from a sustainability study in glass bottle manufacture, currently undertaken by global drinks company Diageo.

Hannah grew up in North Wales, near the foothills of Snowdonia and overlooking the Menai Straits. The dramatic landscape of her childhood, rich in geological formations, laid the foundation for her lifelong interest in the natural world. This formative experience influenced her creative trajectory, leading her to pursue a BSc in Geology at the University of Edinburgh.

During her studies, Hannah became captivated by glass, a material that embodies both scientific principles and artistic potential. This newfound passion prompted her to further specialise in the art of glassmaking, where she continues to push the boundaries of the medium, producing works that seamlessly intersect art and science.

Hannah’s artwork Recycling Narratives: Whispering Sweet Nothings will be on display at the Museum of Brands, along with other selected pieces, as part of the Glass Renewed exhibition from May 30 to August 17. This series explores materiality, sustainability, and the hidden narratives within everyday objects. Central to Hannah’s practice is the innovative use of recycled glass and found materials – from Televisions and Jägermeister bottles to car windscreens – reimagined and transformed into striking works of art that bear little trace of their original form.

Hannah’s artworks open up a dialogue with the museum’s collection, examining how the colour and form of glass is used in branding, as well as exploring the glass heritage of many popular consumer products.  Many of the themes in the artwork resonate with the museum’s Sustainability workshop.

Hannah Gibson, commented: “Exhibiting at the Museum of Brands is an absolute joy and an incredible honour! This unique museum is a treasure trove of nostalgia. Located in the heart of London, it offers a fascinating journey through time, bringing iconic brands and cultural moments to life. It is a magical oasis of pure delight and holds a very special place in my heart. I can barely contain my excitement – this is truly a dream come true!”

Alice Kain, Curator of the exhibition, said: “We are thrilled to show Hannah Gibson’s artwork here at the Museum of Brands. Hannah’s work resonates with the collection, telling stories with iconic brands that make our visitors see the world around them in new ways. Hannah’s work reveals the process of glassmaking and aligns beautifully with the sustainability and consumer history workshops the museum offers. This exhibition will provide our visitors with a visual delight; showcasing Hannah’s stunning artworks alongside very rare glass objects from the Robert Opie Collection.”