The Creatrix

Claire Emery is a Western Australian stained glass artist creating bespoke works that bring light, colour and a sense of wonder into everyday spaces. Her practice is deeply inspired by the natural world, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design to create pieces that feel both timeless and personal.

Claire grew up in Mosman Park in Western Australia, where she developed a deep appreciation for art and the natural world from a young age. Her creative path was strongly influenced by her father, who fostered her early connection to art and making, along with other creative members of her family. Surrounded by these influences, she explored a wide range of mediums including drawing, painting, woodwork, jewellery making, ceramics and digital art. She later studied Art at Shenton College before commencing a Bachelor of Education (Art) at Edith Cowan University.

In the earlier stages of her career, Claire worked at Creative Native, an Aboriginal art gallery, where she held a management role. In this position, she liaised closely with artists, curated and sold artworks, and prepared certificates of authenticity. This experience gave her a strong foundation in gallery operations, artist relationships and ethical, culturally respectful art practices.

Claire’s passion for glass began when she commenced work at Perth Art Glass in 2017 under established artist Ian Dixon. Over more than seven years in a professional studio environment, she contributed to both the design and production of stained glass works, ranging from detailed copper foil pieces to large-scale architectural installations. During this time, she developed a high level of technical skill, efficiency and craftsmanship, while also discovering a love for teaching through delivering structured glass art courses to a wide range of students.

In 2018, Claire established her own art business alongside her work in the studio, originally trading as Chromatix Glass Art before evolving into Creatrix Studios. This marked the beginning of her independent practice, where she began taking on private commissions, selling her work online and building a growing community of students and collectors.

Some notable projects Claire worked on during her time with Perth Art Glass include the restoration of historical stained glass windows, the design of new church windows and high-value residential installations, and the creation of large-scale kiln-formed glass artworks. She also played a key role in major projects, including spearheading the Syriac Orthodox Church mosaic in Wattle Grove, which she designed, constructed and installed.

Alongside her studio work, Claire has built a strong independent practice through her own business. Her achievements include the creation of large-scale glass sculptures for public events such as Western Australia’s Blossom Festival and Queensland’s Mushroom Valley festival, as well as the design and production of twenty stained glass windows for a well-known venue in New York City (Old Mate’s pub). Through her Etsy store and private commissions, her work has been collected internationally, with pieces now held in homes across Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Canada and Europe.

Claire has also developed a deep passion for teaching and sharing her knowledge of glass. She is currently one of the only travelling stained glass teachers in Western Australia, delivering workshops across both metropolitan and regional areas. Her teaching is centred around connection, creativity and confidence, with a focus on creating welcoming spaces where people of all backgrounds can learn new skills and experience the joy of making. Claire is known for her supportive, fun and encouraging approach, and has built a loyal following of students who return for further workshops and recommend her classes to others.

Through Creatrix Studios, Claire continues to create bespoke stained glass artworks for clients seeking meaningful, handcrafted pieces, while also sharing her passion through workshops across the state. With a strong foundation of technical expertise, industry experience and a genuine love for her craft, her work reflects both skill and intention — offering pieces that are designed to be treasured. Whether through a custom commission or a hands-on class, Claire invites others to experience the beauty of glass and the satisfaction of creating something truly unique.