Juri Horino 堀野自由里

Juri Horino is a Japanese glass artist based in Saitama Prefecture, working under the studio name Hikari no Oto-sha. She studied design at Tama Art University, where her interest in product design gradually led her toward glass. She later entered the Toyama City Institute of Glass Art to study a broader range of glassmaking techniques. After completing her studies, she worked as an assistant at glass studios in Toyama and Saitama before establishing her independent practice.

Horino mainly uses glassblowing to create drinking vessels, plates, stemware, flower vases and glass lighting. After each piece has been blown into shape, she carefully cuts and grinds its surface. The contrast between clear and frosted areas creates patterns that shift with the curve of the vessel. When light passes across these subtle textures, it produces layered shadows and reflections that change according to the angle and surroundings.

Glass is often associated with coolness and fragility, but Horino hopes her work will feel warm and approachable when held in the hands. She imagines how each object will be used in daily life and carefully considers its weight, texture and balance. Function is not separate from beauty in her work; the experience of touching, holding and using the object is part of its expression.