R A Y N E S C R Y S T A L Visions of Light

Ascension - Living in the Moment

2012-01-13T08:51:00.000-08:00

In 1982 I emigrated to Toronto, Canada from Sutton Coldfield, England, and to celebrate my 30th Anniversary living in Canada, I am planning a retrospective exhibition of my crystal art for later in the year in Toronto. (exhibition details to follow)

Over the coming months I will be showcasing some of the varied art pieces I have created during that time, including silver and gold objet d'art and crystal art pieces. So much of my career was initially inspired from my early training with Ronald Pennell at the Birmingham Art and Design Institute in Birmingham, England. Ronald considered by many as one of Britain's finest designer artists, helped me see beauty with an artists eye and would like to think that over the past 30 years that I responded to his guidance through the work I have created. Thank you Ronald.

The sculpture on view is entitled "Ascension" the fourth sculpture in a series of five surrealistic pieces focused on issues relating to change and new beginnings. Subconsciously these five sculptures I created all included hand engraved images of staircases, windows, ladders, roads, pathways and doorways in some form or another, and it was only later when this was pointed out to me by a client that I realized each of these elements represented a form or mode of transition from one place to another.

When we are young we never think of being old, when we are parents we are often too busy or capable of living in the moment, and when we are old and may have attained some degree of wisdom it can all be too late.

The five artworks from this surrealistic series of "dreamscapes" were a cathartic journey for me at the time in understanding my past and looking towards the future. I had forgot how influential they were to me at the time, (I made them 20 years ago) but they remind me that kindness, generosity of spirit and trying to live in the moment are the greatest gifts we can give ourselves in life.

The Beauty of the Hummingbirds - Hand engraved works by Mark Raynes Roberts

2012-01-10T07:21:00.000-08:00

Crystal Vases "In Flight" (top left) "Northern Dancer" (top right)
Crystal sculpture detail from "Nectar" (bottom image)

I have always been fascinated by the sheer beauty of hummingbirds and the incredible display and dance they put on when caught in flight. I saw my first Ruby-throated hummingbird on an island in Temagami, Northern Ontario in 1985, and remember vividly being surprised by the buzz of wings and the dexterity when feeding.

Over the years I have been commissioned many times to create art pieces for clients who appreciate this amazing little bird, and can understand why the hummingbird resonates with so many people who love cottage life by the lake. The hummingbird has always been a favorite theme of mine for the simple reason it can be hand engraved actual size which makes the sculpture, bowl or vase truly come alive.

Interestingly Ruby-throated hummingbirds are not dissimilar to the British Robin when it comes to being territorial, typically only coming into contact for the purpose of mating, and both males and females of any age aggressively defending feeding locations within their territory. The aggressiveness becomes most pronounced in late summer to early fall as they fatten up for migration. This is important because, as part of their migration, they must fly across the Gulf of Mexico - a feat which long confounded scientists, as a 500-mile, non-stop flight over water would seemingly require a caloric energy that far exceeds an adult hummingbird's body weight of 3 grams.

However, researchers discovered the tiny birds can nearly double their body mass in preparation for their Gulf crossing. The additional mass, stored as fat, provides enough energy for the birds to achieve this amazing flight. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is approximately 7–9 cm long with an 8–11 cm wingspan, and weighs about 3 g. Adults are metallic green above and greyish white below, with near-black wings. Their bill is long, straight and very slender. The male is smaller than the female, and has a slightly shorter beak.

The breeding habitat is throughout most of eastern North America and the Canadian prairies, in deciduous and pine forests and forest edges, orchards, and gardens. The female builds a nest in a protected location in a shrub or a tree, and is a migratory bird, spending most of the winter in southern Mexico, Central America as far south as South America, and the West Indies. It breeds throughout the eastern United States, east of the 100th meridian, and in Canada in eastern and mixed deciduous forest. They feed frequently while active during the day and when temperatures drop, particularly on cold nights and conserve energy by entering a hypothermic torpor.

Truly a wonder of nature.

Commission your own hand engraved and signed hummingbird art piece by the artist.
Crystal Vases from $1,500
Crystal Sculpture from $5,000
www.markraynesroberts.com

ARCTIC THAW - makes you think doesn't it?

2011-12-28T09:23:00.000-08:00

"Arctic Thaw" was a crystal sculpture I created a number of years ago to convey the increasing loss of the frozen ice cap and the Polar Bears natural habitat. Sea-ice coverage across the Arctic Ocean has dwindled to its second-lowest level since satellite records started in 1979, according to the National Snow and Ice Data Center. The measurements for mid-September have yet to be collated but, according to scientists, the long-term trend points to an ice-free North Pole in summer within a decade. As Stuart McDill reports from the Arctic, the impact on the region's animal life will be devastating.

Here is a link which further outlines the issue of what will happen if we continue to ignore the importance of saving our environment. "Arctic Thaw" makes you think doesn't it? http://www.reuters.com/video/2011/09/14/arctic-sea-ice-melting-faster-than-predi?videoId=221529050

His Excellency The Right Honorable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada receives inaugural Pollution Probe Environmental and Sustainable Development Award 2011

2011-11-17T08:24:00.000-08:00

The new Pollution Probe Environmental and Sustainable Development Award will be presented to His Excellency The Right

Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, at the "Catalysts of Innovation" gala ceremony at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, in Toronto on November 23, 2011.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btqJO61PW8U

Pollution Probe has commissioned the artist to create this new award, which will convey the vision and leadership qualities of the annual recipients, and the values of Pollution Probe as a leading Canadian environmental not‐for‐profit group dedicated to achieving positive, tangible environmental change through its research, education and advocacy programs. Pollution Probe has an active program focused on automobile fuel efficiency, freight movement, Public transit, electric vehicles and consumer behaviour.

The two-piece crystal sculpture entitled "Clarity of Vision" represents three cornerstone values of Pollution Probe, as a foundation of knowledge with an inclusive environment for cooperation and the focus to find innovative sustainable solutions.

“Mark has created a beautiful, iconic award that captures exactly what Pollution Probe is about. We are delighted that it will always be an integral part of the Pollution Probe Gala” commented Christopher Hilkene, Chair, 2011 Pollution Probe “Catalysts of Innovation” Gala.

“What impresses me is that Mark really understood our vision for the award and exceeded our expectations in reflecting that vision and our values in the crystal sculpture” said Bob Oliver, President and CEO and President, Pollution Probe.

The crystal sculpture sits upon a black custom base made from Aquatimber - 100 year old reclaimed timber from the bottom of Georgian Bay, and as the sculpture rotates engraved lines multiply creating their own alchemy within the crystal representative of the many environmental issues we face on the planet. The lines appear to touch the edge of the large polished dimple symbolic of the earth. As the sculpture rotates further the lines dissipate completely revealing an untouched smaller polished dimple symbolic of the clarity of vision required in successfully realizing the most sustainable "green" solution.

"It is an honor for me to create this new award for Pollution Probe, an organization which continually delivers sustainable solutions to environmental issues across Canada. I have tremendous respect for the work they do and wanted to create an award which truly conveyed their message. This two-piece sculpture allowed me to communicate this story by using the refractive properties of the optical crystal in an innovative way" commented Raynes Roberts.

Mark Raynes Roberts is also the creator of the Scotiabank EcoLiving Awards and is currently developing the GLASSLANDS Collection a proposed outdoor art collection focused on sustainability education.

To learn more about Pollution Probe please visit:http://www.pollutionprobe.org/

Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize for Nonfiction - "Books of Inspiration"

2011-11-15T12:08:00.000-08:00

It was a magical evening for Peterborough author Charles Foran, who received the inaugural Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize on October 25, 2011 from the Honourable Hilary M. Weston, in front of a star studded literary audience at Koerner Hall located in the Telus Centre for Performance and Learning in Toronto. The event was hosted by Albert Schultz, the founding artistic director of Soulpepper Theatre Company, and included a special performance by the musician Michael Kaeshammer. Now Canada's richest prize for non-fiction, the author received the $60,000 and the newly created

crystal award by Mark Raynes Roberts entitled "Books of Inspiration". The design captures the journey of the writer’s quest for knowledge, aspiration for truth and its resultant success. The sculpture combines three crystal books, two lying flat on a slight angle, creating the steps of truth and knowledge with the third book standing representing the success from endeavour.

"This beautiful new award reflects the lot of the author - theirs is a journey requiring much reflection and going back before moving forward. The simplicity of this new award design is testament to the thought and hard work that goes into the work of all artists" commented Mrs. Weston.

Mordecai: The Life and Times, was described by the judges as "an epic work of scholarship and energy, capturing the wit and sincerity of Canada's most famous literary contrarian." The biography was also an "authentic portrait" of Richler, according to the jury composed of writers Brian Brett, Devyani Saltzman and Russell Wangersky.

"I am honoured to have this unique opportunity to recognize writers whose work I deeply admire for its quality, range, and eloquence," said Mrs. Weston. "Our nonfiction writers are held in great esteem around the world, and through this prize we are committed to further enhancing their status and their well-deserved reputation."

Charles Foran is the author of 10 books, both fiction and non-fiction, and his biography on Richler has also been nominated for the Governor General's Literary Award for English language non-fiction, with the winner being announced Nov. 15 and Gov. Gen. David Johnston will present the awards Nov. 24 at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.

http://www.writerstrust.com/News/News-%281%29/Press-Release-Archive/Press-Releases/Weston-Prize-Sculpture.aspx

Angels of Love - anges de l'amour

2011-11-01T06:10:00.000-07:00

One of four sculptures being exhibited at the CHASE Art Exhibition and Sale at the Royal College of Art in London England. "Angels of Love" is a two-piece hand engraved sculpture which refracts creating an alchemy of angels. The glass engraving techniques combine deep diamond wheel engraving with diamond point stippling, a technique dating back to the 16th century.

Angels of Love (anges de l'amour) by Mark Raynes Roberts
For more information please visit: http://www.chasecare.org.uk/

Touched by An Angel

"We, unaccustomed to courage
exiles from delight
live coiled in shells of loneliness
until love leaves its high holy temple
and comes into our sight
to liberate us into life.

Love arrives
and in its train come ecstasies
old memories of pleasure
ancient histories of pain.
Yet if we are bold,
love strikes away the chains of fear
from our souls.

We are weaned from our timidity
In the flush of love's light
we dare be brave
And suddenly we see
that love costs all we are
and will ever be.
Yet it is only love
which sets us free."

Maya Angelou

CHASE Art Exhibition & Sale - Royal College of Art, London, England

2011-10-25T08:37:00.000-07:00

I am very honored to be one of the 15 invited artists taking part in this year's CHASE art exhibition at the Royal College of Art in London, England on Thursday November 10th, 2011.

Here is one of the four crystal sculptures I have created especially for the event entitled "See The Forest For The Trees", which is hand engraved and diamond point stippled and depicts the Sussex Downs countryside in Autumn.

The CHASE Art Exhibition is a highlight on the London art scene calendar showcasing and selling the work of many of Britain's top glass artist's including my teacher and mentor Ronald Pennell, Katherine Coleman, Gillies Jones, Colin Reid and Sally Fawkes.

Now in its 12th year, the event raises in one evening, close to £100,000 for the CHASE children's hospice in Guildford, who do tremendous work in supporting children who are not expected to reach their 19th birthday. It is entirely privately funded and receives no government support, so I am delighted to support such a worthwhile cause.

For more information please visit: http://www.chasecare.org.uk/

WWW.MARKRAYNESROBERTS.COM

2011-10-21T06:16:00.001-07:00

Sea of Tranquility

2011-10-19T15:54:00.000-07:00

"One is rich not through one's possessions, but through that which one can with dignity do without." Epicurus

Epicurus was an ancient Greek philosopher and the founder of the school of philosophy called Epicureanism. Only a few fragments and letters remain of Epicurus's 300 written works. Much of what is known about Epicurean philosophy derives from later followers and commentators.

For Epicurus, the purpose of philosophy was to attain the happy, tranquil life, characterized by ataraxia—peace and freedom from fear—and aponia—the absence of pain—and by living a self-sufficient life surrounded by friends. He taught that pleasure and pain are the measures of what is good and evil, that death is the end of the body and the soul and should therefore not be feared, that the gods do not reward or punish humans, that the universe is infinite and eternal, and that events in the world are ultimately based on the motions and interactions of atoms moving in empty space.

Sometimes we need to look back to see clearly what lies ahead.

Art For Business Sake - Glass Stampede

2011-10-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

Architectural glass is the perfect medium to provide clarity for crystal clear corporate communication, whether for a corporate office environment or for a new hotel lobby creating an artistic statement which has impact can set the tone. The benefits to commissioning public works of art of this scale, can include not only greater brand awareness to the public but also potential media interest.

“Mark's creativity, passion and sheer artistic talent are matched by the intense personal connection he brings to every project. He seems to be a centuries old master-craftsman flung into the future to remind us that art and business have the same DNA. He has been a great friend to my favourite causes and so many others that make a difference in the world.”

Jim Hayhurst

WWW.MARKRAYNESROBERTS.COM

2011-10-05T08:38:00.000-07:00

INspired by Nature

2011-10-05T06:50:00.000-07:00

In my previous two Blogs I have talked about how architects seem to favour using the brilliance of building reflective prisms for today's world, and also how nature inspired me to design the GLASSLANDS Collection. Its evident that the beauty which surrounds us everyday is the catalyst for changing the way we see and live in this world.

The image shown here was taken at Southbrook Vineyards during the exhibition this Summer, and shows the sculpture "INspired" which apes the "Shard Tower" being built in London, England. Set against the backdrop of the vineyards and Southbrook’s award winning Jack Diamond inspired hospitality pavilion, the sculpture appears to become the connecting rod between the land and the glass building acting as a lens through which we can see new found beauty.

Southbrook is the first winery building to receive the Gold level of LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) from the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) in November 2008. Bill and Marilyn Redelmeier, owners of Southbrook are ground breaking entrepreneurs in the world of sustainable viticulture, and their pursuit of this ideal has made Southbrook an award winning winery.

INspired by Nature - Mark Raynes Roberts
www.southbrook.com

GLASSLANDS Inspiration

2011-10-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

The inspiration for designing the GLASSLANDS Collection sculpture's came to me after a trip to the Gaspe peninsula in the summer of 2010. I had visited Les Jardins de Metis/Reford Gardens in Grande Metis on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, where international artists are invited by Director, Alexander Reford to create outdoor installations to be showcased at the historic gardens.

After this visit it made me think about the reflective interplay my crystal sculpture could have with nature, and so when I returned to Toronto I took some of my existing pieces up to the Caledon, countryside and placed these art pieces in the landscape to see how they would refract the environment.

The photograph's I took in September 2010 inspired me enough to draw the ten large scale sculpture designs by the Spring of 2011 which I proposed for outdoor exhibition, and were based upon the strategic sustainability program of The Natural Step Canada. This summer, exhibitions were held at both the Pond Gallery, at the Alton Art Centre in Caledon, and at Southbrook Vineyards in Niagara on the Lake, Canada's first Biodynamic winery.

I am now beginning work on the first of the ten large scale sculpture's, and planning other exhibitions of the GLASSLANDS Limited Edition Design Drawings and Photography at art galleries and environmental centres across Canada.

“Glasslands is a unique exhibition that considers the beauty and fragile state of our environment. The elements of the exhibit are inspiring and filled with hope but are symbols of the action required by all of us if we are to restore the balance between nature and human impact.”

Geoff Cape, Co Founder, Executive Director, Evergreen
www.evergreen.ca

An Architectural Glass Canvas

2011-10-03T10:27:00.000-07:00

I was recently back in London, England, and was inspired by some of the great new architecture on the city skyline, including the new Shard Tower being built in Southwark close to London Bridge. Designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop the "Shard of Glass" will open in 2012, and will be the tallest building in the European Union and the 45th-tallest building in the world, standing 310 m (1,017 ft) tall. It will also be the second tallest free-standing structure in the United Kingdom. This area of London has transformed itself in recent years with proximity to the city's financial district on the other side of the river, where the now familiar "Gerkin" building and historical Great Fire of London Monument stand.

It seems to me that many of the most inspiring architectural building's being built today convey not just sculptural qualities, but also a real desire to reflect the natural beauty of large scale crystal prisms. As a crystal artist who has spent 30 years creating sculpture, it is interesting to view such heralded architect's as Renzo Piano, Daniel Libeskind and Frank Gehry using many of the same shapes and forms I use in my work to convey their large scale architectural masterpieces.

The Royal Ontario Museum "Crystal" which Libeskind famously designed on the back of a napkin, sadly didn't crystalize into the initially anticipated reflective glass design first proposed due to cost concerns and engineering issues when faced with the severe Canadian winters. The new addition to the Art Gallery of Ontario designed by Gehry however, delivered a far more successful result using natural materials within the building itself, and in supporting the long curved glass facier which runs for one full city block and houses the Galleria Italia which faces out onto Dundas St. West. Daniel Libeskind's autobiography "Breaking Ground" (which I highly recommend) is a fascinating insight into one of the world's great architectural visionary's, and helps to explain the level of politics and ego's involved in making these multi-million dollar development projects a reality.

Renzo Piano has designed the Shard Tower with 72 habitable floors, plus 15 further radiator floors in the roof. The building has been designed with an irregular triangular shape from the base to the top, and will be clad entirely in glass. The top of the tower evokes open sails, a reminder of the many merchant ships which used the River Thames for commerce. A viewing gallery and open-air observation deck - the UK's highest - will be located on the 72nd floor.

This inspiring new crystal edifice nearing completion reflects one of my artistic aspirations, to one day work on an architectural scale project similar to the Shard where the building itself becomes the canvas for communicating global messages based upon our shared humanity.

Visions Of Light - 25 Year Retrospective

2011-09-30T16:08:00.000-07:00

VISIONS OF LIGHT - Mark Raynes Roberts, Crystal Sculpture & Architectural Glass Design
is a new retrospective book of Canadian crystal artist, Mark Raynes Roberts work in crystal and glass spanning over 25 years.

Richly illustrated, this new 80 page book is a photo survey of the artists' hand engraved masterpieces, contemporary sculpture and larger scale glass installations, with more than 170 pictures showing all facets of his work. Trained in his native England under the supervision of one of Britain's most respected glass art designers Ronald Pennell, the book reveals for the first time many works that have never been seen before. All the photographs have been selected by the artist and showcase many of his most intricate works of art.

VISIONS OF LIGHT - Mark Raynes Roberts Crystal Sculpture & Architectural Glass, has been published as a signed limited edition book and is available at $95 each.

An Architectural Voice

2011-09-30T15:59:00.000-07:00

Over the past three years I have devoted myself to drawing and designing larger scale sculpture's for projects I believe in such as the GLASSLANDS,Project HUMANITY and the HEALING LIGHT Collections. All of these projects are linked together in conveying issues which affect our shared humanity, our relationship with the environment and our own sense of mortality. These are the projects which feed my soul as an artist and allow my voice to be heard, but they are also the projects which require the support and commitment from sponsors who equally believe in their importance.

GLASSLANDS Collection

2011-09-30T13:35:00.000-07:00

The GLASSLANDS Collection is a proposed 10 piece outdoor art collection of sculptures made from optical crystal and reclaimed glass which will communicate the stepping stones for greater sustainability and was first inspired from a visit I made to Reford Gardens in Metis sur Mer, Quebec in 2010.

The metaphoric sculptures will reflect the connection between humankind and nature. The materials of crystal and glass are the perfect medium to convey the message, focusing attention on both the negative and positive actions of humankind on the planet Earth and fragility of the environmental balance in which we all live.

“Through the GLASSLANDS COLLECTION, Mark Raynes Roberts offers a unique lens
through which to examine the natural environment and provides a medium for beginning a dialogue on sustainability. The artistry will inspire new creative ideas and thinking" suggests Christopher Hilkene, President, Clean Water Foundation

Canada's Top Prize for Nonfiction Crystallized

2011-09-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

The new award for the Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize for Nonfiction will be presented at a gala ceremony at Koerner Hall, at the Royal Conservatory of Music, on October 24, 2011.

The Hilary Weston Writers’ Prize for Nonfiction is the largest annual literary award for a book of nonfiction published in Canada. The award will provide $60,000 to the eventual winner. Up to four finalists will each receive $5,000. An additional education component will be developed to provide Canadian high schools with resources to connect prize finalists and their writing with young readers.

The design captures the journey of the writer’s quest for knowledge, aspiration for truth and its resultant success. The sculpture is made up of three crystal books, two lying flat on a slight angle, creating the steps of truth and knowledge. The third and standing book represents the inspirational success of endeavour.

The prize is awarded for literary excellence in the category of nonfiction, which includes, among other forms, works of personal or journalistic essays, memoirs, commentary, and criticism, both social and political; history, and biography. Finalist works will demonstrate a distinctive voice, as well as a persuasive and compelling command of tone, narrative, style, and technique. Originally established in 1997, the prize has previously been awarded to 14 writers. In total 69 titles have been finalists for the prize.

The Writers’ Trust of Canada is a charitable organization that seeks to advance, nurture, and celebrate Canadian writers and writing through a portfolio of programs, including literary awards, financial grants, scholarships, and a writers’ retreat. Writers’ Trust programming is designed to champion excellence in Canadian writing, to improve the status of writers, and to create connections between writers and readers. Canada’s writers receive more financial support from the Writers’ Trust than from any other non-governmental organization or foundation in the country.

Full information on the award, the finalists, the judging panel and the gala awards ceremony is available exclusively on the Writers’ Trust of Canada website, www.writerstrust.com

EMBRACING ALL HUMANITY'S DIVERSITY

2010-05-28T09:49:00.000-07:00

Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT

MISSION: To inspire peace, rapport and compatibility by encouraging understanding and acceptance of humanity's diversity.

VISION: Raising global awareness of the benefits of our shared humanity.

VALUES: Inclusiveness, Acceptance, Understanding, Collaboration, Diversity, Enlightenment and Harmony.

GOALS: Building bridges between people of the world. Linking earth's inhabitant's to unite through Project HUMANITY. Communicate through art where we have been and where we must go. Create an environment that stimulates humankind to consider the past and imagine a better future. Provoke a journey from dark to the light. Motivate breaking barriers of prejudice and discrimination through art.

Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT is a unique global crystal art and multi-media initiative. Taking 3 years to create, the collection will become a touring exhibit and legacy for future generations to better understand mans inhumanity throughout history, and to celebrate our differences and shared humanity.

The 21 piece architectural scale art collection will be presented with state of the art lighting, music soundtrack and film documentary providing a visually stunning educational exhibit, aimed at building bridges of understanding between people of all faiths, colour, creed and orientation.

A timely global message to open minds of all ages today, tomorrow and in the future.

HANDS FOR HUMANITY - Joy von Tiedemann Photographic Collection

2010-04-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

The Official Photographer for Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT,

Joy von Tiedemann, has recently completed an inspiring new collection of twelve black and white hand portraits, each one emblematic of the "FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT" theme and reflective of the human characteristics of survival and our shared humanity.

"Throughout history art has overcome the artificial barriers that divide humanity; the barriers of nation, race, culture, even religion. Art opens the closed door of our egotism and casts a light on the transcendent qualities that we all share, challenging us to become who we truly are : one shared spirit.

I feel working together with Mark on Project Humanity - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT will be an excellent venue to express these thoughts."

Joy von Tiedemann

MERCY

DEFIANCE

STRUGGLE

DESPERATION

SURVIVAL

HOPE

"This series of hand portraits depict gesture's which are represented
both in negative and positive formats, symbolic of both the fragility
and inspirational aspects of the human condition when faced with
the DARK and LIGHT shades of life."

Joy von Tiedemann

SANCTUARY

COMPASSION

EQUALITY

EMPATHY

HARMONY

PEACE

Hands of Mark Raynes Roberts, Founder, Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT

A CHILD SURVIVOR'S VOICE OF REASON

2010-04-15T16:32:00.000-07:00

THE TREE OF LIFE

FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT

"Mark Raynes Roberts’ intricately compelling vision and masterful presentation empowers one’s mind and moves one’s heart brilliantly; a vision and a presentation adopting a universal language which compels us to decisiveness and action within our global community. As a child survivor of the Bosnian genocide and the heinous atrocities of “never again,” I whole-heartedly welcome this highly innovative approach to prevent future stains on our collective consciousness and irreversible losses to humanity."

Alem Hadzic, Bosnian Genocide Survivor

VOICES OF SUPPORT FOR Project HUMANITY

2010-03-10T10:32:00.000-08:00

"Mark Raynes Roberts vision for Project HUMANITY is truly a project of hope,

and joins many other voices in the quest for answers to the following question:

"Will genocide ever end?'

I hope that the human touch of this endeavour, the sincerity of the artistic creator,

and the attention of those who will visit the exhibition provide clearer answers to

the question."

Rafiki Ubaldo

Rwandan Genocide Survivor

Co-Founder, Post Genocide Education Fund

Stockholm, Sweden

"Congratulations on this excellent artistic, historical and educational project!

As a former educator and Holocaust survivor, I find your beautiful presentation

profoundly meaningful and touching. Best wishes with this truly outstanding

endeavour to promote and inspire the lofty goals of universal peace, social

justice, understanding and tolerance."

Helen Drazek Wajs

Holocaust Survivor

"I am deeply impressed and moved by Mark Raynes Roberts' intellectual and

compassionate understanding of the dark side of humanity and its potential for

transcendence. His artistic vision is grand in scope as befits a topic of this

magnitude. As a child Holocaust survivor, I have always searched for ways

to make the lesson's of genocide universal so that the atrocities committed in

the past and still going on today will someday cease. I am confident Mark

Raynes Roberts installation will make a major contribution toward this end

by leading us through education to the light."

Renate Krakauer

Author, Holocaust Memoir

Holocaust Survivor

"Mark Raynes Roberts is a crystal sculptor and designer with an extraordinary vision.

His Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT speaks to humankind's

deepest tragedies and is at the same time a moving affirmation of the human spirit."

The. Hon. Bob Rae, MP

"Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT is indeed a very
powerful presentation and is a major historical and educational message
from Canada to the world. If the inhumanity throughout history is not well
understood, the capacity for history continually repeating itself is only too
obvious."

The Hon, R. Roy McMurtry, O. Ont, QC
Counsel, Gowlings LLP

Former Chief Justice and Attorney General of Ontario

"It is refreshing to see the match of art and social justice in this way."

William Thorsell, Director and CEO, Royal Ontario Museum

"Your concept for Project HUMANITY is ambitious and inspiring. The entire
world needs a greater understanding of diversity and acceptance of differences.
With the globalization of instant communications, Project HUMANITY has the
potential to influence children all over the world. If we start educating our
children now, hopefully within a generation we will have eradicated ignorance
and prejudice in all its forms."

The Hon. J Trevor Eyton, O.C.

"I find that the power and strength of your presentation lies in its all encompassing
nature, embracing the issue of human rights in all their dimensions. I believe this
project has the potential to become emblematic in and of itself, beyond mission
statements, and value propositions, the visual testimony of your work is a poetic,
and evocative statement of the ideals that humanity needs to embody, express,
support and promote. Your work gives people the tangible visual expression of
purpose and value."

Tom Smart, Executive Director and CEO

McMichael Canadian Art Collection

"I know Mark Raynes Roberts remarkable work, and feel very fortunate to be the
recipient of such extraordinary sculpture's. Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK
TO THE LIGHT is a wonderful concept of inclusion and acceptance that demonstrates
how far humanity has come and gives us hope for the future."

Rick Hansen

President & CEO, Rick Hansen Foundation

Man in Motion World Tour

"Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT is visually astounding
and soulfully profound. Hatred is a viral emotion that requires cleansing of the
heart. This overwhelming crystal art takes us from a journey though the
darkness of hate into the cleansing by light. This is what makes it so utterly
engaging and in the end so important as a learning experience."

Bernie Farber, Executive Officer

Canadian Jewish Congress

"Like all effective art this collection of sculptures promises to evoke a complex
multi-dimensional response from viewers and participants.The collection has
the potential to be a powerful educational tool - not only for a heightened
intellectual awareness of pressing international human rights issues, but more
importantly a sense of responsibility for individual agency."

Carol Ann Reed, Ph.D

Author, Equity Consultant, Human Rights Adviser

Genocide Educator

"One only has to read the Golden Rule of world religions to realize precisely
how badly we humans have treated one another throughout the centuries of
time. Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT is a brilliant
expression in contrast not only of what has been, but also gives hope to the
possibility of what should be. Whatever drives the inspiration of Mark Raynes
Roberts, it is to the collective advantage of us all."

Fr. Damian MacPherson, SA, President, Toronto Interfaith Council

Director for Ecumenical and Interfaith Affairs Archdiocese Toronto

"It is appropriate that art is the medium through which we honour and
celebrate human rights, for it is art that transcends many of the artificial
barriers that supposedly disallow unity. Through the vision of this incredible
artist, we too can express hope for global understanding of every human
being as a person worthy of dignity, honour and respect."

The Rt. Rev'd Colin R. Johnson, Bishop of Toronto

Anglican Diocese of Toronto

"It is rare that a project both touches my heart and reflects aesthetic
sensibilities.You are clearly a brilliant artist and have chosen as a theme
perhaps the most important issue that will confront the 21st Century,
man's inhumanity to man."

Michael A. Levine, Partner

Goodmans LLP

"Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT is one of the
most unique and powerful projects I have yet encountered. Using the
brilliance of Mark Raynes Roberts crystal sculpture it has the potential to
move and educate literally millions of people to a greater understanding of

human rights."

Ted Nation, President, Yield

Former CEO, J. Walter Thompson

"The depth of emotion your crystal sculpture evokes has always been
astonishing. Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT takes it
to still another level. The subject is critical and evocative, and your idea's give it
both passion and permanence."

Jim Hayhurst, Former Chairman, Hayhurst Advertising

Co-Founder, Trails Youth Initiatives

Former Chairman, Outward Bound Canada

"Mark's vision for Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT is truly

a masterpiece for the world to embrace, and an initiative which can bring the

world to Canada, and Canada to the world. It provides a unique opportunity

for our country to engage the world again following the dramatic success of

the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.

Having spent a lifetime building a successful international luxury ice wine brand,

I understand how important it is to develop an initiative of this scope which can reach

the largest possible audience around the world."

Mark is not only a master of his art, he is passionate and focused in his desire

to communicate the issues of man's inhumanity in a positive light. His intellectual

understanding and empathy for the subject, is matched by his energy to bring this

lifetime of work to reality."

Donald Ziraldo, LLD, C.M

Chairman, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre

Co-Founder, Inniskillin Wines Inc.

"Having spent over 35 years in the audio visual, multi-media and world scale
special event productions, I recognize Project HUMANITY - FROM THE
DARK TO THE LIGHT as a unique expression that would appeal to worldwide
audiences of all ages. Mark stands alone in the world of crystal sculpture,
and his desire to capture the broad topic of Humanitarianism is timely,
desirable and indeed nescessary."

Allan Holman, Chairman

Holman Communications Inc.

"Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT is incredibly powerful
combining profound metaphorical crystal sculptures, with the multi-media
elements of film, video and music to create a truly unique and inspirational
mosaic, accessible to anyone, in any language, in any country in the world.
A gift to all HUMANITY."

Howard Rosen, MBA

President, Nova Motion Pictures Ltd

"Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT has the ability to amend
and change the world: to penetrate the psyches of people of all creeds and challenge
them to re-shape their perceptions of each other. With a talented, committed team
on board, this project has no bounds! Your stunning vision, supported by the many
writers, thinkers and artists whom you cited is such a worthy and exciting project.
It's marvelous to just fly in your realm as you speak with such passion about the
realities of today's world and the hopes for tomorrow's.

Peter Jennings

Chairman, The Executive Group

ADVOCATE FOR DIVERSITY

2010-03-09T06:09:00.000-08:00

As a long time advocate of diversity education, I was also a Board Member of the Canadian Centre for Diversity between 2002 - 2006.

During that time, I created the Canadian Centre for Diversity Human Relations Awards, and the inaugural CCFD International Diversity Award which was presented to Harry Belafonte by Ned Goodman, Chair Emeritus, Canadian Centre for Diversity, Chair, President & CEO, Dundee Bancorp Inc.

In 2005, founded and sponsored the inaugural Canadian Centre for Diversity - Discovering Diversity Award presented annually to a student who exemplifies and promotes diversity education and harmony within their school environment in Canada.

www.centrefordiversity.ca

ARTIST STATEMENT

Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT

“I am deeply committed and passionate about this project and the need for creating greater understanding and education on issues of hatred, prejudice and genocide, and how humankind I believe has the ability to eradicate these from the world.

This is the most important message for all of humankind in the 21st Century,as we will take greater care of the environment, if we as a species begin to recognize and understand our common connectivity as human beings.

My hope and aim is to engage the viewer in such a way, that it will leave a lasting lifetime impression to embrace our human rights and shared humanity globally.

"EQUALITY"

Crystal is one of man’s greatest creations, a material which is so pure that it evokes nature’s perfection. It is a medium which can reflect, distort, and bring clarity to symbolic narrative themes, allowing the viewer an ethereal experience that speaks to the inner soul in all of us.

We must remember that our inhumanity to humankind cannot continue to exist in a world of instant communications. Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT is a timely global message to open minds of all ages today, tomorrow and in the future."

Mark Raynes Roberts,

Founder & Creative Artist

THINKING "OUT OF THE BOX"

2010-03-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT
Maquette Galleria

"Over the past few weeks I have begun exploring the technical exhibition components and staging for Project HUMANITY - FROM THE DARK TO THE LIGHT to maximize the synesthetic human experience.

The word Maquette is a French word for scale model, and is sometimes referred to in Italian name plastico or modello, as a scale model or rough draft of an architectural work or sculpture.

I find this physical realization an important part of the creative process to develop shapes and ideas.

The shape and flow of the gallery space I envision now, may be totally different from the final reality, but the maquette allows me to extrapolate as an artist how the space works with the connecting twenty sculpture's which will likely also go through their own memetic change.

My vision is to create an experiential journey for the viewer which reflects not only man's inhumanity to man throughout history, but then allows us to discover and embrace the light of diversity and the spectrum of our shared humanity.

It is all about distilling and clarifying the final dialogue between space, light and object."

Mark Raynes Roberts