About Gigha Klinkenborg

Award-Winning Glass Artist and Glass Workshop Tutor in North Devon

Hello, I’m Gigha Klinkenborg, a glass artist, and glass workshop tutor based in Bideford, North Devon.

I’ve been working with stained glass for nearly 30 years, and my passion for glass art continues to grow with every project I create. From traditional stained glass panels to contemporary fused glass artwork, I love exploring colour, texture, and light through a variety of glass-making techniques.

Creativity has always been at the heart of everything I do. I’m a self-confessed craft enthusiast with a love of glass, textiles, painting, and collecting materials that might one day inspire a new project. If it can be transformed into something beautiful, I’m interested!

Inspired by the Colours of North Devon

Much of my inspiration comes from the world around me. The vibrant colours of the North Devon coastline, the boats on the estuary, changing skies, wildflowers, and even eye-catching packaging can spark ideas for new designs.

Glass is a fascinating medium because it constantly changes with the light. As a result, every piece feels alive, whether I’m creating decorative glass art, stained glass panels, fused glass homeware, or unique handmade gifts.

My Studio in Bideford

I work from my studio in a beautiful Victorian warehouse on Torridge Hill in Bideford. It’s my favourite place to design, create, experiment, and teach.

Creating with glass is both rewarding and therapeutic. However, one of the most enjoyable parts of my work is sharing those skills with others through my stained glass and fused glass workshops in North Devon.

Teaching Glass Art Workshops

Teaching is a huge part of what I do. I love welcoming complete beginners into the studio and helping them discover the possibilities of glass art.

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing students arrive feeling unsure of their abilities and leave with beautiful handmade pieces they’re genuinely proud of. Whether they’re attending a stained glass workshop, a fused glass course, or one of my seasonal creative classes, I aim to make every session relaxed, enjoyable, and inspiring.

Many students return again and again to learn new techniques, develop their skills, and enjoy time in a creative and supportive environment.

Life Beyond the Studio

I live in Bideford with my husband, Carl. After many years restoring classic Volkswagens, he’s now mostly retired, although he remains an expert carpenter, problem-solver, and maker of almost anything I can dream up for the studio.

Together, we’re often spotted around North Devon in our much-loved 1974 Volkswagen FEUERWEHR fire bus, affectionately known as Burn-E. He’s currently undergoing a major restoration, but we’re looking forward to getting him back on the road soon.

Join Me for a Glass Workshop in North Devon

Whether you’re interested in learning stained glass techniques, trying fused glass for the first time, or developing your existing creative skills, I’d love to welcome you to one of my workshops in Bideford.

Explore upcoming glass workshops and discover the joy of creating something beautiful with your own hands.