Book excerpt: Nick Mount is one of the world's leading glass artists. In his sixtieth year he was honoured with a major exhibition in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as well as the Object Living Treasure Award. This book, written in the style of an extraordinary yarn, is not so much about Nick Mount's achievements as a glass artist as it is about the elements that have shaped his career and continue to inform his work. His philosophy, work ethic and environment, peers and family have all been factors in his work and success. Together they form the fabric of his work. Nick Mount has received numerous awards, including the Bavarian State Prize in Germany, an Australia Council Fellowship, and the Arts SA Triennial Project Grant. He acknowledges the honour of being able to work with his hands, and has enormous gratitude for a lifetime of assistance from Dr and Mrs G.J. Mount, Pauline, Hugo, Peta and Pip. Nick Mount The Fabric of Work is richly illustrated with photographs of Nick's pieces, including many made recently. These vibrant works range from the extraordinary flamboyant scent bottles to more recent wood and glass fruit pieces that reflect a lush quietude.