An Investigation into Curious Opulence. My current investigation into Curious Opulence focuses on critical inquiry surrounding the solidification of light and its transient nature through perceptual shifts. This has been informed by the recent scientific discovery of atoms (the fundamental building blocks of both matter and negative space) being ninety nine percent empty. While eluding the human eye, the atom reveals in its nature unseen connections between perception and reality. I have explored prism-like lenses and bubbles as a metaphor for optically impossible and complex spaces that the modern notion of the atom quantifies. These resemble fragmented parts that originate from unique and baroque spherical forms. I have chosen to use materials that innately reflect beauty and value, such as blown, mirrored, silvered and dichroic glass. These materials have the ability to shift perception through reflecting and refracting light. Dichroic glass was produced by NASA to coat the visor of space suit helmets, in order to protect the human eye from harmful ultra violet and infra red light, emanating from natural light sources in deep space. It is thought to be one of the most precious and valuable developments in glass technology to date. I am currently completing my Masters Degree in Fine Arts-Glass at Monash University.