Glass Touch

Inspiration and Aspiration

2012-01-31T06:35:00.003-06:00

Perusing the stacks of a used book store recently I found this book on glass paperweights. With my recent focus on murrine making, I considered this find very fortuitous. Glass paperweights are fully of murrine and millefori. The book gave me a cursory background on glass paperweights which was fairly interesting. More importantly to me it is a wealth murrine examples. With torch time at Dream Fire Glass scheduled for tomorrow, I am studying this book as I work out a plan for how to approach my time at the torch. Spring is just around the corner, so millefori maybe...

Paperweights: The Collector's Guide to Identifying, Selecting, and Enjoying New and Vintage Paperweights by Pat Reilly

Goodbye GQ. Hello Etsy.

2012-01-30T22:51:00.001-06:00

Thank you Janet for including me in one of your Treasuries.

Cold Hands Warm Heart

2012-01-18T22:27:00.005-06:00

What to do with with left over little bits of yarn? Here is one idea. It doesn't take much to make a little pair of mittens. These toddler size mittens where made with bits of two different yarns. I used this free crochet pattern from Lions brand yarn as a guide making just one or two minor adjustments for the materials I was using. I added the buttons and tassels for fun. I think they are cute as can be. Now my hands may are small but these are for tiny little toddler hands, so they have been packed up and sent off to a little girl in a cold place. I hope she enjoys them.

What a Weekend

2012-01-16T23:19:00.000-06:00

Saturday

The official grand opening of Dream Fire Glass's new studio was a fun filled day of activities. I'll show you...

Throughout the day there were demonstrations, food, drink, and socializing among old and new friends.

In the late afternoon a crowd gathered to break the pinata. Stuffed with more then just candy. Grown adults elbowed there way for prizes. The last time I hit a Pinata was in elementary school. This was too much fun.

As the evening approached there was a visit from some of the Brothers of the Flame. These guys are just amazing. If you ever have a chance to see them perform you absolutely should.

Sunday

I spent the day at Wired Designs Studio taking an introductory welding workshops. It was a nice change of pace to be taking vs. teaching a workshop at Wired Designs.

I learned the basics of the established welding processes available and had a chance to use an oxy-acetylene torch and two different MIG welding set ups. Based on what I have learned so far I think the oxy-acetylene may be the right option for me. Fire good...

Next Sunday I'll be back at Wired Designs to teach a fused glass workshops on sanblasting iridized glass.

Practice, Practice, Practice

2012-01-11T01:55:00.004-06:00

When it comes to flameworking you can't just understand it conceptually you have to be able to execute it physically. I find this terrible frustrating. What! You mean you can't just sit down at the piano and play Chopin! Having made a somewhat focused effort with my time on Firey Fridays, I think I have finally gotten the twisted cane thing down sufficiently to move on. So Sunday I spent time taking a murrini workshop at Dream Fire Glass. I had made simple murrini before but was very pleasantly surprised at how much of a difference this full day of focused instruction made. I think I might actually be getting this heat control thing down. I don't want to get ahead of myself though. Practice, Practice, Practice... already contemplating murrini making with my time next Fiery Friday. Little by little my hands will learn what my head knows.

Fill our heart with sunshine and good thoughts!

2012-01-09T00:03:00.002-06:00

What a positive sentiment Beata has in compiling this Etsy treasury. I am honored to have been included in such a warm and cheerful collection. On a gray winter day like today it brought me joy to see such bright bold color.

From Goldilocks to Dreadlocks

2012-01-04T06:15:00.000-06:00

I have this habit of buying yarn I like with absolutely no plan at all just because I like it. Later I find myself trying to figure out what to do with a specific amount of something I will never be able to match again. Like the wool I bought from the Sudan Farm. Crazy I know... This time when I pulled out a collection of pink, yellow and blue wool which I had bought on one of those whims, I decided to do something just as fun and crazy with it as my idea to buy this yarn had been in the first place.

I started by crocheting as many thin spirals (approximately 1 inch wide) in a variety of lengths as my supply allowed. This gave me a pile of Shirley Temple like ringlets. Cute as can be.

Only I wasn't exactly going for cute. So now what? Being wool it seemed only natural to felt them. This stretched out those tight ringlets into a more wabi sabi organic forms giving me something more like dreadlocks then Goldilocks. Much better...
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But I still wasn't really sure what I thought of this idea. So I wore it. No better test then the court of public opinion. I expected to get a comment or two but the consensus was overwhelming. It got complements at work and at the studio. That was expected. These were people who know I crochet and expect this kind of thing from me. It was the complete strangers who stopped me while about my everyday business which convinced me that I might be on to something here.

Having worn them I can say from a usability perspective that they are mostly just fashionably fun. They create a nice warmth across the back of your neck, after all they are wool, but I won't wear them with the specific goal for fighting the bitter cold. There are better scarves for that purpose. Also if I make something like this for anyone other then myself I'll need to attach them together somewhere in the back to help keep them together all the time. Won't want one to get lost now would we.

Since this is still relatively a new and developing idea, I'd love to know what you think too. Thumbs up... thumbs down... What do you think?

Unconsciously Done

2012-01-02T22:00:00.000-06:00

Decorativekilnformed glass pieces with flameworked elements

Funny sometimes where ideas come from and how easily influenced one can be. I knew exactly what influenced the image of a full moon but it wasn't until Saturday when Anne arranged my bowl on Barry Bradley's mesquite and iron table Branching Out that I remembered... Suddenly I recalled walking into Artisans this fall, seeing this new series of furniture and being struck by the strong imagery of the branches. I didn't realize how strong it impacted me at the time but seeing these pieces displayed together it was undeniable the influence it had on me.

Artisans of Rocky Hill in Fredricksburg Texas

Just joined ISGB

2011-12-29T00:30:00.002-06:00

With a new year approaching, I decided it was time to join the International Society of Glass Beadmakers (ISGB). If you know me, you know I do not make glass beads on mandrel. So you might wonder why I decided to join ISGB? Here's what I'm thinking. I continue to do more and more work on a torch. Primarily I create components which I use in my kilnformed work like the Navajo Blanket or in fused functional pieces. Although some of the kilnformed glass jewelery I make would technically be considered a bead, really what I'm after is a little more exposure to those flame working skills. I think ISGB just might be able to offer me that. Earlier this year I joined the Society of Artisan Lampworkers of San Antonio (SALSA) and that's gone okay so far. So I figured this would be a good next step. So here it goes...

Working with a strip of Bullseye glass on a hothead

December Treasuries

2011-12-28T18:42:00.013-06:00

Thank you to everyone who included me in an etsy treasury. During December I was featured in eight different listings. I am always delighted to see how much creativity goes into putting a treasury together. I included a few here for you to peruse and a full list of all eight treasures is below.

A Very Zesty Christmas

Green Green Christmas

how fun is ... Where's the Fire?

Gorgeous!

Bunny's Home for the Holidays HGTV Treasury Challenge 2011

Little Flames... Ice Cold...

Blinding Orange

Hospitality

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T16:22:00.004-06:00

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It's hard not to feel like a child at Christmas. Even I, who had behaved more like Scrooge and baa-humbugged my way right up to Christmas day, found myself scribbling like a child. I'm going to blame my behavior on the mulled wine, the abundance of sappy feel good holiday movies on television and my crazy Christmas sweater. It was all too much...

Wishing everyone a joyous holiday season and a very merry Christmas!

Christmas Combing

2011-12-22T22:52:00.001-06:00

The San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) recently had their holiday gathering. Jeanne served her fabulous shrimp mouse on an amazing handmade holiday tray. Jeanne is a great example of the amazing talent of our SAGAG members. I wanted to take a picture of the perfect shrimp mouse, garnished and displayed on such a lovely try. It was such a hit that in the few moments it took for me to grab my camera it was just about gone. On the bright side it cleared the way for us to get a better look at this lovely combing.

Kilnformed Glass Combing by Jeanne Turner

The shrimp mouse recipe along with many other appetizers, breads, soups and salads can be found in the San Antonio Glass Guild cookbook Enticing beginning & Sweet Endings. The cookbook is available online and at the following locations:

Dream Fire Glass Studio

Mica Jewelry & Beads

My Place Bar and Grille

Perspectives Gallery of Art and Working Studio

Wired Designs Studio

Proceeds from the cookbook go to the guild's scholarship fund to support members seeking to attend conferences, workshops and other educational opportunities.

Workshops Winter/Spring 2012

2011-12-13T23:38:00.004-06:00

I am scheduled to teach the following workshops at Wired Designs Studio. You can sign up for glass by contacting Wired Designs directly at 210/4954495.
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Beginning Glass Fusing
February 18, 2012
May 19, 2012
9:30 am - 5:30 pm

A one day workshops where students are introduced to the essential knowledge required to work with fused glass including compatibility, firing schedules, cold work and other important topics. Students will create two class projects during which they will be exposed to; three firing schedules (full, tack and fire polish); the use of kilns, grinders, saws; and work with a variety of glass and glass related products. This is a great opportunity to learn something new.

Platters, Plates and Bowls
March 24-25, 2012
June 23-24, 2012
9:30 am -12:30 pm
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Students will begin by designing and creating their own flat glass tiles. In doing so they will learn about volume control, firing schedules and how to cut glass circles. Students will cold work their tiles using the sandblaster, wet belt sanders. Lapidary grinding wheels and diamond pads. We will address mold selection and preparation in order to slump the finished tiles and beautiful one of a kind function plates, platters and bowls

Sandblasting Iridized Glass
January 22, 2012
April 7, 2012
9:30 am - 4:30 pm

This workshop will open your eyes to the possibilities of sandblasting before and after firing. Students will work with iridized glass to create patterns and shadows using positive and negative space. These techniques can be applied to base glass or per-made blanks before or after slumping. Glass jewelry makers can also benefit by adding new ideas and depth to their designs. Students will create tiles or wall hangings in this is a one day workshop.

Powder Skills
April 21-22, 2012
9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Learn to create imagery, depth, and drama in your work by incorporating exciting powder techniques. Students will create powder wafers, explore crackled powder techniques, uses positive and negative space to create custom designs and incorporate imagery into their fused glass projects. This specialty class will show you the true power of powders!

Kiln Carving
March 4, 2012
9:30 am -4:30pm

Drop your chisel and learn how to achieve a sculpted look with this assistance of your kiln. We will design and create bas relief images and textures using fiber paper to form impressions in glass. This is a wonderful technique to add dimension and pattern with economy of both labor and materials. Use the smooth clean surface on top and look through to the pattern within the glass. Or turn it over and not only see but feel the shapes and textures.

Glass Casting
January 27-29, 2012
May 25-27, 2012
9:30am -4:30 pm

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Sculpt in clay; learn about mold making materials and techniques to create refractory molds; and how to measure, cut and cast glass billet for your specific mold. We will discuss the special considerations that go into a casting firing schedule, including how to heat, cool and anneal thick and uneven thicknesses of glass. Students will cast their own work in glass.

Twisted Cane and Latachino

2011-12-10T09:40:00.000-06:00

Twisted cane and latachino ranging from 6-24" in length.

Last night I had the opportunity to sit for just a couple of hours at the torch over at Dream Fire Studio. Torch work can be very relaxing and even meditative. For that window in time you concentrate on just what is in front of you forgetting the other actives of the day. This was just what I needed. With no specific plan in mind I selected a color pallet of emerald green, Egyptian blue, and black. Laying the colors over a white center I pulled a handful of latachino and a few twisted canes. These seem to be begging to be used a piece of stringer fabric or a glass weave. I'll just have to come up with some special use for them.

Weekend Workshop

2011-11-30T01:33:00.000-06:00

This past weekend I enjoyed leading a group through their first fused glass plate making experiences in at Wired Designs Studio. Several of the students had already been exposed to creating components perfect to include in custom plates and platters in October's Liquid Glass workshop. With this in mind, I demonstrated the special considerations that should be taken when including these custom design elements by using a progressive pattern bar from an August workshop to make a large platter.

Above, my demo from class still in the kiln after the first firing.

In additional to learning how to create and fire their glass tiles, everyone received hands on experience in coldworking. Using a lapidary wheel they ground and beveled the edges and then sandblasted the surface to ensure a clean finish. The well crafted tiles where then slumped into their final forms. Below are every one's pieces coldworked and ready for their final kiln firing.

Everyone did such a great job! I can't wait to see how they all turn out and what they do next.

A Day of Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T16:05:00.000-06:00

This has been a very busy year. At times it felt there has barely a moment to breath. So today I am grateful most for a day of rest. To sit quiet in my home with a glass of wine. Hands occupied with crochet. My mind absorbing nothing more then the ideal details from a Selected Short. In the other room, the Dallas Cowboys play. Soon the smell of roast duck will begin to waft from the kitchen. Like anything else this day will not last. While it does, I will enjoy it fully and give thanks. May you also have peace this holiday.

Blue and White Decoractive and Functional Glass

2011-11-22T22:08:00.001-06:00

Soda Lime Glass

Handmade Functional and Decorative Pieces

Now available on Etsy

Full Moon

2011-11-15T08:36:00.002-06:00

Last Thursday as I drove home from work, I became hypnotized by the magnificent full moon which loomed large in the evening sky. It commanded your attention and dwarfed everything else on the horizon. Driving down the highway in the middle of rush hour traffic, I found myself in awe of nature.

Later that evening, I was loading the kilns and there was a small corner of the shelf still empty. I hate running the kilns if they are not full. It's like running the washing machine for just one outfit when you could have put in a whole load, also a pet peeve of mine. It just seems like a waist. So with the moon still large in my mind, I gave myself a few minutes and a little bit of glass to just play. It was good to do something not because it might sell or as a demo for a class but just for fun. A couple days later my seven year old niece and I were riding in the car when she pointed at the moon as said "look aunt Nicole it's just like your moon". That brought it all full circle and made it all worth while.

Visiting Artist Johnathon Schmuck

2011-11-14T20:06:00.001-06:00

SAGAG General Meeting

Jonathan Schmuck Guest Speaker

When: Nov 17, 2011 06:30 PM

Where: Wired Designs Studio

5123 N. Loop 1604 W. Suite 104

San Antonio, TX 78216

The San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) is excited to present visiting artist Johnathon Schmuck. While here in San Antonio to teach Rock 101 at Wired Designs Studio, Johnathon will be the featured presenter at the SAGAG general meeting. Johnathon is a long-time supporter of the SAGAG having done a number of exciting and educational presentations for us in the past. We look forward to seeing him again. The meeting begins at 6:30 with a half hour to provide an opportunity to say hello to Johnathon and network with glass guild members. At 7pm we will conduct or general meeting followed by our feature presentation. Meetings are open to public. Visitors are welcome.

Johnathon Schmuck is the author of "Joy of Coldworking". Illustrated with color photographs of processes, equipment, and works of art, this extensive publication on coldworking techniques is a must have resource for glass artists. I never hesitate to recommend this book to students and fellow glass craftsman. Regardless of experience level this book as something for everyone. November 17th is your chance to meet the author. Don't let this opportunity pass you by.

I can relate...

2011-11-06T22:12:00.000-06:00

-"I like spring, but it is too young. I like summer, but it is too proud. So I like best of all autumn, because its tone is mellower, its colours are richer, and it is tinged with a little sorrow. Its golden richness speaks not of the innocence of spring, nor the power of summer, but of the mellowness and kindly wisdom of approaching age. It knows the limitations of life and its content."|

- Lin Yutang

I decided to post some rich golden colors of my own in honor of the season. On the left, a 6.5 inch shallow bowl with floral imagery. On the right, functional 5 inch square plates in amber and vanilla.

Get one while you have the chance...

2011-11-03T02:46:00.000-05:00

After two full weeks of feeling pretty darn miserable, I finally acknowledged defeat and went back to the doctor. On the right meds to attack my allergies and in just two days I'm starting to feel like myself again. What does that have to do with scarves? Well my old self spent this evening coldworking glass and loading kilns not curled up on the coach crocheting scarves. So this recent little run on scarves is not likely going to last. You can grab one of these just in time for winter. Guaranteed no one else will have one exactly like it.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to try to load another kiln with dichroic glass jewelry before Uptown Art Stroll. So much to do and so little time.

Uptown Art Stroll

2011-11-02T01:51:00.001-05:00

Saturday 10am-5pm & Sunday 12-5pm

November 5-6, 2011

Uptown Art Stroll, in the historic neighborhood of Olmos Park Terrace, has continued to grow in popularity and importance becoming a can’t miss event for art collectors, historic neighborhood aficionados, budding artists, and those who appreciate and support San Antonio’s unique art scene. This two day event gives you access to over 50 artists working in a variety of mediums at 21 locations throughout Olmos Park Terrace.

Olmos Park Terrace is in the center of San Antonio located between McCullough and San Pedro avenues, south of Basse Road and north of Hildebrand. Each location will be numbered and have a corresponding sign to make identification easier. Parking is available throughout the neighborhood. Visitors will be able to catch a RiverCity Pedicab to make getting from one end of the Art Stroll to the other even easier. RiverCity Pedicabs are provided by the artists participating in the Art Stroll and the Olmos Park Terrace Neighborhood Association (tips are appreciated). The number to call for one to pick you up is: 279-7306.

Members of the San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) will be at 5331 Howard Street, location #21 on the Art Stroll map.Participating Glass Guild Members include:

Louise CraigDesigns

Glass Touch, Nicole Vachier Lozano

Dream Fire Glass, Nina "Sam" Hibler

Fire and Glass Design, Valerie Larson-Lohr

Little Song Art& Fused Glass, Denise Liedtka

Le Crone Walston,Dona Walston

Folck Art, MaryFolck

Glitter & Glass Studio, Jill Wilson

LJK Designs, LindaKirk

Anne Burtt

Barbara Brooks

Kay Lorraine Johnson

Laura Ensign

Vicki Munie

There will also be hot glass demonstrations by Dragon Fire Studio, Larry West . If you have never seen a glass blower at work this is something worth seeing.

Recent Workshops

2011-11-01T16:08:00.001-05:00

October included several workshops which I particularly enjoyed facilitating including Kiln Carving at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center (KACC) and Liquid Glass at Wired Designs Studio.

In Kiln Carving at the KACC students learned to sculpt in glass using time, temperature and gravity as their your tools. They designed and created bas relief images and textures in fiber paper which were used to form the impressions in glass. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet and talk to a fascinating group of students including one who was working with glass in the flame and a fellow Artisan's artist who typically works in clay.

student projects from a Kiln Carving workshop at the KACC

Just this past weekend was a Liquid Glass workshops at Wired Designs. Students learned techniques which all take place at kilnforming temperatures from1600-1700 degrees Fahrenheit including combing/raking, pot melts, wire mesh melts and high-fires. My favorite part was watching them work as a team through the combing/raking process. They did such a great job!

student combing of spring green, driftwood grey and deep cobalt blue

pot melt and wire mesh melts still in the kiln

Fall finally blows in...

2011-10-29T09:13:00.001-05:00

Fall is finally blowing in and with it bringing all kinds of "goodies". So for the past week, I have been suffering (woe is me) from a hefty case of allergies. I have dealt with this by spending a fair amount if time curled up on the coach with a cup of Zengranny's tea, watching way too much television and crocheting. These crochet scarves are full of warm romantic ruffles in firework red and eggplant. If you are interested in laying claiming to one, you can visit my Etsy story.

Fiber content includes 30% Mohair 55% Acrylic and 15% Polyamid.

St. Thomas Episcopal Art and Craft Fair

2011-10-13T23:10:00.000-05:00

Saturday, October 15th

10:00am to 6:00pm

St. Thomas Episcopal School

1416 North Loop 1604 East

San Antonio, TX 78232

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St. Thomas Episcopal School’s seventh annual Pumpkin Patch includes hundreds of pumpkins of all sizes. The Pumpkin Patch will feature a hay maze, hay rides, storytelling, face painting, pumpkin decorating and more. Saturday, October 15th will include arts and crafts vendors as part of the festivities. You will find me indoors with handmade glass jewelry, functional and art items to help you start your holiday shopping. St. Thomas Episcopal School is conveniently located at the corner of North Loop 1604 and US Highway 281 North.

Asta de Toro Azul

2011-10-10T20:20:00.001-05:00

19x12" Framed Soda Lime Glass with Copper, Silver and Gold Foil

San Antonio Visual Artists

invite you

Thursday, October 13

6:30 - 8:30pm

to an opening reception

at The Foundry

2720 McCullough

San Antonio, TX 78212

In 2010, I created a series of glass pieces I referred to as Asta de Toro Azul (the horn of the blue bull). The framed piece above became my "journal page" reminding me of the inspiration and execution of that series. It will be on display through December 9th at the Foundry as part of a SAVA exhibit.

VIPink San Antonio Event

2011-10-06T23:28:00.001-05:00

Bright Pink, a national non-profit organization providing education and support to young women at high risk for breast and ovarian cancer, is sponsoring a VIPink event in San Antonio to create awareness and raise funds. "Bright Pink believes in the beauty and strength of women. It exists to enlighten and empower high risk individuals to take control of their breast and ovarian health by providing education, support and a sense of community for a better, brighter future. "

VIPink San Antonio Event

October 13, 2011

7:00pm-10:00pm

Blue Star Contemporary Arts Center

116 Blue Star

San Antonio, TX 78204

tickets available online

I am happy to be able to support their cause with a donation for their silent auction. Two pieces from a series displayed as part of the Luminous will be available to bid on the evening of the event.

Rose de Petal - Soda Lime Glass and Mica

Driving Home...

2011-10-02T08:46:00.000-05:00

Driving home from a visit to Artisans in Fredricksburg I stopped briefly to admire this statue of an animal planted amidst a field of dry and brittle grasses. I had talked to several people at Artisans who where admiring paintings of cows/cattle. It gave me a different perspective and made me curious to stop and really look.

A Weekend Well Spent

2011-09-29T23:48:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we were casting at Wired Designs Studio. Here is a student applying a thin splash coat to pick up as much detail as possible before hand building a plaster mold around their wax form. This was not a workshop for anyone concerned about looking cool. By the end of day two we were dawning respirators, dusting plaster off ourselves and trying to wash the wax out from under our nails. Now that's my idea of fun!

After the molds set the wax was steamed out. In the past I have used a series of cheap pots and metal mesh. This go around I invested $25 in a 24 gallon tamale warmer at a local grocery store. Best 25 bucks I ever spent. Not exactly how my mother would have used this tool but it worked like a dream.

While waiting for the molds to steam out I did a little cold working. This piece of glass is being ground on a lapidary wheel. This is one of several steps, including sandblasting and lathe carving, I take to make a functional piece (e.g. bowl or plate) that feels fabulous to touch.

First Day of Fall

2011-09-23T22:44:00.004-05:00

Green and Ivory Stripped Crocheted Scarf

Today is officially the first day of fall. Seasons are determined by changes in sunlight not temperature So despite the local weather with highs still in the mid-90's, I have added a few crocheted scarves to my Etsy shop in hopes it will lure cooler weather our way.

Waterjet Cutting Glass & Metal

2011-09-23T22:30:00.001-05:00

Melinda Garces of Garces Designs

on waterjet cutting glass and metal

6:30pm Dinner

3 course meal at Absolutely Everything Catering for $16.80

RSVP for dinner by September 27, 2011

7:00pm Meeting & Presentation

Sponsored by the San Antonio Glass Art Guild

Open to the public

Garcés Designs is a premier waterjet design and fabrication company serving commercial and residential clients in San Antonio and throughout Texas. We specialize in using computer-driven, precision waterjet cutting machinery to craft both traditional and contemporary designs with a variety of materials including stone, iron, metal, ceramics and glass.

Cross Fire

2011-09-12T21:02:00.000-05:00

New glass series just delivered to Artisans at Rocky Hill

With 95% of the state of Texas experiencing extreme drought the dry landscape is a source of fuel that has become an open invitation for fire. All that is needed is the spark. In the past week the Texas Forest Service has responded to over 140 fires impacting approximately 35 thousand acres. Weather forecast give little hope conditions will change anytime soon. Fire reports have become part the daily news and the common topic of discussion with out-of-state friends. I have spotted my fair share first hand driving from point A to point B, including one we drove through returning from our adventure in McAllen. So, it is no surprise what as on my mind while making this series last week. A golden dry landscape dotted by fires across the state.

It's no surprise that I think a controlled flame can be a useful tool for working with glass but wildfires are dangerous and costly. We can all do our part to help prevent needless fires. For information on fire prevention visit the Texas Forest Service website.

11 3/4" Oval Platter - Soda Lime Glass

11 3/4" Bowl - Soda Lime Glass

McAllen Adventure

2011-09-09T13:15:00.002-05:00

Mosic Cube by McAllen Stained Glass
Hackberry & Main in McAllen, Texas

This Labor Day weekend I headed down to the valley with Nina "Sam" Hibler from Dream Fire Glass. Sam was teaching glass bead making I and II at McAllen Stained Glass. Although I may not be skilled at making glass beads in the torch, I was not without my contributions. Drawing on my skills as shop girl, studio tech and kilnformed glass instructor I was able to lend a hand having a good time along the way. The McAllen Stained Glass studio and gallery is located in a lovely Art Village. Galleries stayed open late with music and dance in the courtyards for McAllen's First Friday Art Walk . As visiting Artist Sam's work, including an entire herd of glass pinata donkeys, where on display.

Bead making I and II workshops on Saturday and Sunday included a fabulous group a folks. I love to see how people respond to their first experiences with glass in the flame. Some people are immediately drawn in. Others take a more cautious approach. By the end of day I think everyone was hooked.
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Marilyn watches the color of spring green glass change from orange to deep red as she learns to judge heat control while making one of her first glass beads. Constantly turning the mandrel the glass naturally forms a do-nut shape.

Liz took to the flame almost instantly. It may not be long before we see flameworked glass beads incorporated into the wonderful work she is doing at Hecho Por Liz. By day two she was looking right at home behind that hot head torch making beautiful pink hearts.

Sam demoing a new technique during glass bead making II.

Dedicated day one and two survivors. These guys are hooked.

To pass time on the drive between McAllen and San Antonio I read from The Secret Lives of Men and Women a Post Secret project compilation. Although it certainly entertained, I was left feeling as if I had snooped through someones drawers. Shocking... I'd vacillate between "really someone actually did that... people make these up right" and every now and again "I know". I remember stumbling onto the Post Secret site years ago and seeing a postcard that could have easily been written by me. I printed it and for several years it sat next to my compute screen, a reminder I was not the only one who felt that way. The copy of this book came to me from a surprising source. I'll just same thank you and leave it at that.

Fire Good

2011-09-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

Sam from Dream Fire Glass making a glass snowflake bead

Waiting and wishing for cooler temperatures while the sweltering summer heat consumes everything like fire. Fall can't come soon enough for me this year or like this snowflake I may melt. Looking forward to lighting the torch this fall at Dream Fire Glass Studio. Every time I stop by for a visit more and more progress is made. I'm certain there is a Fiery Friday in my near future and I can't wait. In the mean time. I'll be accompanying Sam on a teaching trip down to McAllen Stained Glass. I'm looking forward to being in a room full of torches for the first time in a couple months. More to come...

Cool Down with a Cool Drink

2011-08-31T10:01:00.000-05:00

It's been so hot. All I want to do is cool down. Although normally I might enjoy a glass of red wine with dinner this is the time of year to hear ice clinking in your glass. The Greyhound is a simple and refreshing grapefruit cocktail that makes a fabulous summertime treat. Thank you Louise for the locally grown organic grapefruits. I can't imagine you would disapprove of my use of them.

Ingredients:

2 oz vodka, I suggest trying Texas local Enchanted Rock
4-5 oz grapefruit juice, fresh squeezed is preferable
Ice cubes
Lemon or lime wedge for garnish

Preparation:

Pour the ingredients into a highball glass with ice cubes.
Stir
Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge
Sit back, relax and remember to drink responsibly

Pattern Bar Workshop

2011-08-28T22:20:00.001-05:00

This weekend was two days packed full of pattern bars in a workshop I facilitated at Wired Designs Studio. We started Saturday with the traditional Roman pattern bar and then dove into totem pole, bookend and progressive pattens. Here is a little taste of what that looked like

Before

the first firing - Day 1

After
Being cut on the saw - Day 2

Using the pattern bars we had just sliced and washed we stated work on projects using these fabulous elements as key design components. By the end of day two there was work back in the kilns ready for firing number two.

Planning the use of the progressive pattern bar shown above right
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Examples of student work

Sana, Sana, Colita de Rana

2011-08-26T00:02:00.003-05:00

If you work with glass it is inevitable you will get cut. Lord knows I've had my share of scraps. Common sense is the best preventative medicine to keep you clear of anything other then a superficial cut. But even ordinary cuts and scrapes deserve attention. If it happens to you this it what it boils down to:

Stop the bleeding. No matter how engrossed you are in your project stop. Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage. Most minor cuts stop bleeding on there own with in a few minutes but if it doesn't consider it a sign to seek medical attention.

Clean the wound. Rinse out the wound with water. Use a pair of tweezers cleaned with alcohol to remove any offending glass splinters. Thorough cleaning reduces the risk of infection. After you clean the wound, you may decide to apply a thin layer of an antibiotic cream or ointment to discourage infection.

Cover the wound. Bandages can help keep the wound clean and keep harmful bacteria out. After the wound has healed enough to make infection unlikely, exposure to the air will speed wound healing. Change the dressing at least daily or whenever it becomes wet or dirty. Signs of infection (i.e. redness, increasing pain, drainage, warmth or swelling) are red flags to seek medical attention.

Red Cross Medicine Pouch by tomatopin available on Etsy

I'm no doctor. These are the common sense things mom taught use when we scrapped our knees as kids and it still applies. Don't just take my word for it. If in doubt seek assistance. Keep a first aid kit handy with all the things you may need to treat minor cuts and scrapes like; bandages and butterfly tape, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, finger cots, etc. Any good boy scout will tell you to be prepared.

Sana, sana

Colita de rana

Si no se sanas hoy

Sanaras manana

Right Under Your Feet

2011-08-24T23:04:00.005-05:00

How many people do you think walk down this path and never even notice the color, character and texture right under there feet? Too busy to notice or maybe they just don't care. We miss out when we lose sight of the details around us. It's just the dirty old street anyway right?

Under the Influence

2011-08-23T20:31:00.006-05:00

Influenced by my recent read of a book on type design and a desire to see beauty in this drought this is what I ended up with for my Sweet Shot Tuesday. I'm wondering if I have source material for something here with the combination of metal, texture, and earth tones. Maybe, maybe not...
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Picked up An A-Z of Type Designers at a local book store on a whim. Flipping through it reminded me of that old sage advice, "it's not what you say but how you say it". I used to think that just meant word choice. Later I realized tone, pace and inflection carry the message. They are the package which delivers the words you choose. For the written word the type takes on that role. I find that fascinating.
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Wherefore "Art" Thou?

2011-08-22T19:45:00.000-05:00

Call for Artists

Art281 Juried Art Show & Sale

The San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) is putting out a call to artists for the third annual Art281 Art Show & Sale being held Saturday, October 8, from 10 - 6 at My Place Bar & Grille. Artwork must be handmade, high quality pieces. “We have a number of excellent glass artists who have already juried in, but we would like to expand our reach and showcase more of the many talented painters, sculptors, potters, photographers, and fiber artists in our region. We encourage artists of all disciplines to apply. In addition, arts organizations are welcome to host informational booths for their groups.

Art281 will be held rain or shine on the grounds of My Place Bar & Grille in Bulverde, Texas. Information and applications are available at www.art281.com.

Vitrigraph Twisted Cane

2011-08-22T00:18:00.004-05:00

Nina "Sam" Hibler from Dream Fire Glass pulling cane

Bucket full of twisted vitrigraph cane

kiln reaching 1786 degrees Fahrenheit

Because Texas isn't hot enough already, might as well crank up that kiln full and start pulling some vitrigraph. Sam and I set up my little Olympic Hot Box kiln to pull some pretty sweet black, white and coral wig wag (twisted back and forth) cane. Granted sitting on a step ladder is not the most ergonomic choice but it got the job done. Now what is to be done with this cane? Thought I might use some in a glass weave I've started.

For more information about vitrigraph:

- Check out Bulleye Glass Technotes #2

- Consider a skill building workshop at Wired Designs Studio, vitrigraph is scheduled for October 6th

Red Hot

2011-08-17T01:35:00.004-05:00

Seems like everyone, even the cows, are looking for a cool spot in the shade to bet this summer heat. I can't say that I blame them. I was recently asked why I hadn't produced more new work this month. Before I could think through a proper response I blurted out, "it's hot". Working up the motivation to go out into my unconditioned workspace to load kilns doesn't come easy when they call those level II heat advisories. What new work I have completed recently is most definitely influenced by this "red hot" south Texas summer we are having.

red HOT - Kiln Carved Bas-Relief available at Artisans of Rocky Hill
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Yet another example of the techniques students will learn in the Kiln Carved Workshop at the Kerr Arts & Cultural Center on October 22, 2011.

Kiln Carving Workshop

2011-08-16T23:19:00.001-05:00

Kiln Carved Glass

At the Kerr Art & Cultural Center (KACC)
October 22 10:00 - 4:00

I am very excited to have the opportunity teach a workshop at the KACC. Students will learn to sculpt in glass using time, temperature and gravity as your tools. Create images and textures in fiber paper used to form the impressions in glass to create your own bas relief sculptures. This is a wonderful introduction to anyone interested in learning about kiln formed (fused) glass. All supplies and firing fees are included. Beginning and experienced fusers are welcome. To sign up contact the KACC at 830-895-2911 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 830-895-2911 end_of_the_skype_highlightin.. .

For more examples of this technique, check out some of my work on display at Artisans at Rocky Hill in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Calligraph Exchange

2011-08-11T23:55:00.004-05:00

This evening was the San Antonio Calligraphy Guild's Annual Exchange. Members and local art suppliers come to sell or exchange items of interest to calligraphers, art journalist and bookbinders. I only meant to pop in a few minutes. By the time I left my arms were full with little goodies like nibs, stamps, ink samples and an assortment of straight edge handles all for less then today's lunch. The real treasures were some of the great books I picked up. A used copy of Lettering Arts by Joanne Fink and Judy Kastin is going more for online then I paid for the enter lot. I am particularly excited about the copy of The Mystic Art of Written Forms by Fredrick Neugebauer sitting on the top of the stack above.

Thank you to Asel Art Supply and Herweck's who came with supply's at discounted prices for SACG members. I left with paper, ink and nifty tools. Thank you.

Remembering one Stich at a Time

2011-08-10T14:04:00.002-05:00

Felted Crochet Wool Scarf
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The other night I decided to organize the plethora of yarn collecting in a closet. As I pulled everything out one lone ball rolled across the room. It was a ball of crayon colored virgin wool I picked up back in 2009 while in Portland for the Bullseye Education Conference BECON on casting. Strolling one morning through a farmers market I found, a small ball of wool from one of SuDan Farm's coopworth sheep named Orkney. It was practically calling me then (buy me, buy me) and now (isn't it time you do something with me?). So I did, both times. With a J hook and just 3.5 oz I quickly crocheted this spiral scarf which I then felted. With each double crochet I was reminded of that trip and now I'll get to wear my memories to keep me warm. Well, maybe not now since it's like 103 degrees outside but soon I hope.
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Farmers Market - Portland, Oregon

Stopping to Blow Bubbles

2011-08-09T22:44:00.004-05:00

We spend our days completing tasks at work, managing our businesses, taking care of our family. Sometime we have to take a moment to do something just because it's fun, like blowing bubbles, and not because it ticks off some box on a check list. I'm going to do that by taking a few moments to look through my camera's lens at something that is not glass. Making this my first Sweet Shot Tuesday post.

Summer and Fall Fusing Workshops

2011-08-07T15:50:00.003-05:00

Saturday was a full day of fun facilitating a workshop of Essentials Fusing I students as they created dicroic glass pendents and tack fused works of glass art at Wired Designs Studio. Spending the day with so may eager minds, I thought it would be good to share possible next steps for those of you who have had a taste of kilnfomed glass and want more. Here are a list of workshops I am scheduled to teach at Wired Designs Studio in August,September, October and November.

Functional Plates, Platters and Bowls

August 20 & 21

November 26 & 27

Pattern Bars

August 27-28, 2011

Learn how to apply this ancient concept to your modern day kiln formed work. We will explore a variety of possibilities to create designs that range from structured and geometric to organic and tribal. You will learn how to create, cut and lay out patters for use is future fused projects ranging from functional plates to modern day jewelery.

The Power of Powders

September 17-18, 2011

Glass Casting

September 24-25, 2011

October 15-16, 2011

Liquid Glass

October 29-30, 2011

Explore Creating pot melts, Screen melts, high fires boiling and hot coming glass in the kiln. Come prepared to experiment and take home a wide variety of components that can be used in future work. A great way to take your scrape glass and turn it into interesting effects which can be used to create one of the kind windows in your functional and art glass work.

See something that interests you? Contact the ladies over at Wired Designs Studio at (210) 495-4495 to sign up today. Space is limited.

Black and White

2011-08-05T18:26:00.000-05:00

Some people see things as black and white.

Others believe that truth is found in grays.

For me things are black and white only twisted.

Flameworked and Kilnformed Soda Lime Glass

What's growing in the garden?

2011-08-03T21:56:00.002-05:00

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Nothing these days. If this drought continues any longer I may have to resort to drastic measures just to keep what was the lawn from turning to dust. I bet there is water in there...

Mind over Matter - Think Cool

2011-07-30T20:11:00.005-05:00

As expected July in Texas has been Hot, Hot, Hot! No big surprise here. So I'm taking a moment to turn my mind to something that evokes thoughts of cool. I'm hoping that mind over matter is more effective then my ancient air conditioner.

Kilnformed Opalescent Soda Lime Glass and Mica

Available through Artistans at Rocky Hill

Making My Own Art Journal - Part 2

2011-07-27T10:00:00.003-05:00

Day 3

The Cover

With the text block already prepared, it was now time to put on the cover. Measurements were carefully taken and museum boards cut and clearly labeled for each step of the process. Leather, in this case a naturally tanned terracotta goat skin, was selected and cut for the cover.

The leather would take some preparation before it would be ready for the cover. First it must be skived and pared. This is not an area where I have any expertise. Lucky for me I had the support of those fabulous Book Art Babes. Now I know just enough to understand what I must still learn. The Scharf-Fix was used for skiving the boarder of the skin so it would more easily bend around the covers's boards. Once skived on the Scharf-Fix a paring knife was used to create a smooth transition to the edges of the skin. This felt a lot to me like coldworking glass. Using one's finger to feel for a smooth transition while carefully removing material. The material and tools were unfamiliar but the goal was not.

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The edges of the boards were sanded down at an angle to allow the cover to easily open and close. Once completed the boards were attached to the text block tapes to form the skeleton of the books cover.

The leather was prepared and the book covered. This was not without it's challenges. Although I have applied leather to a book's cover on a couple previous occasions (e.g. book with cords one and two), the variation of this concave spine provided me a learning opportunity I am not likely to forget. Molding the leather into instead of over the spine, I "stole" a bit more leather from one side then the other making the remaining job a little dicey. Making mistakes is how you learn. Overcoming them is part and partial for the course in bookbinding, kilnformed glass or any other form of craft. I'm a little wiser for this experience. Once complete the book went under pressure.

Day 4

Final Touches

The next and last day was devoted to finishing touches. End pages were put in. I selected a green embossed paper with a subtle gold sheen that worked with the green in my the headbands I had sewn into the book back on day two. The green provided a lovely contrast to the terracotta leather cover. But the finishing touches didn't end inside the book.

On the outside of the book gold tooling was used to add a design on the front cover. I reached way back to a design I carved on a lino block years ago, shrunk down the image to just the right size and embossed it in 23k gold on the front cover. Simple, elegant, functional... my favorite things.
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I can't wait to start using it!

Making My Own Art Journal

2011-07-22T15:42:00.007-05:00

Capturing, developing and planning the execution of an idea are important parts of the creative process. For me, personally developing the place where this takes place makes it all the more special. The books I have made are my own. They become a safe home for my ideas good and bad. After working to build and then fill a book it becomes an old dear friend, my own adult version of the velveteen rabbit. On occasion however, I become afraid to write in a book. This happened to me with the book I made in May of 2010, whose pages are to day still blank. What I have to say doesn't seem to match a book so formal and unnatural to open and write in. For that reason, I am very excited to be learning a new bookbinding technique under the wonderful and wise guidance of the Book Art Babes. This contemporary binding, the rigid concave spine, was developed by James Brockman. This binding is beautiful in it functionality and thus one I believe I will use comfortably and confidently.

Day 1

Preparing the Text Block

Day 2

Everyone's Favorite

Sewing the Headbands
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I'm half the way there. More to come...

At Home with Glass

2011-07-12T18:24:00.004-05:00

beveling edges of a future bowl

When I start on a particular piece I have a vision of what I want to accomplish. As I work that vision adjusts and becomes real. I gain a familiarity with the work; the raw materials, the changes that take place in the kiln, and the changes I effect coldworking. In the end I am intimately acquainted with the piece as it stands alone. I catalog it, photograph it but rarely see the work in the fuller context of someones home or office. Recently several people sent me pictures of the pieces they purchased on display. It was really wonderful to see how these items fit into their new environment and how they contributed to another's vision/design. Thank you so very much for sharing. It brings me great joy to see these pieces become a part of someone's world.

untitled - 5.25" soda lime glass bowl

Against the Grain - 9" soda lime glass bowl

Star Light Star Bright

2011-07-09T20:44:00.000-05:00

I had so much fun with Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, I wanted to recreate that experience. I recently made some kiln carved pieces of Suns, Moons, and Stars that were suited perfectly to this type of display. Working with nursery rhymes is pure joy. I can't help but repeat these rymes over and over to myself will working. They are words that bring back memories and stir rising hopes. Who could not smile with these pure and simple thoughts in one's mind.

Kilnformed and Sandblasted Glass

Star Light Star bright,
The first star I see tonight,
I wish I may, I wish I might,
Have the wish I wish tonight.

My only wish now is they might bring as much joy to someone else as it did me in making it. These pieces was just delivered to Artisan's of Rocky Hill. You can contact Artisans directly for more information.

Kilnformed and Sandblasted Glass

I see the moon (and) the moon sees me
The moon sees the somebody I'd like to see
God Bless the moon and God Bless me
And God Bless the somebody I'd like to see.

These are way to much fun. I'm certain there will be more of this type of work in my future. Besides I still have bright yellow suns to finish. You are my sunshine, my only sunshine... maybe. Look for it coming soon.
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Glass Weaving Workshop

2011-07-07T22:42:00.001-05:00

Saturday, July 9, 2011

at Wired Designs Studio

Learn the techniques to turn glass sheets, rods, and stringers into sparkling textural glass fabric forms. The class focuses using glass as threads to make your own faux and true weaved glass fabrics which can be used to create architectural textiles, or components for inclusion in larger projects.

Stringer Fabric 10" Square Glass Plate

The Existential Question Artist or Employee

2011-07-05T14:24:00.004-05:00

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Are we what we do or what we believe we are or what others believe us to be? One the first questions we are asked or ask to ascertain information about someone is, "what do you do". By there response we think we obtain some understanding about an individual. But are we really what we do? I have a full time job. I get up each morning, make my way through traffic to work at a computer, attend meetings and conference calls, and hopefully make educated decisions. So does doing this make me less of an artist? This is a question I often battle with in my own head. I sometimes feel as if I am living two different lives, the corporate and the creative one. Yet neither one defines me. They are just things I do.

Just because I work for a large company does not make me less of an individual artist. From time to time I need a reminder of this. It was during one of these moments that I stumbled upon Summer Pierre's The Artist in the Office. This was a fun read that helped remind me of some of the basics of living a creative life. It is all a matter of perspective and sometimes we just have to stop and look at things from a different point of view.

Now with refreshed perspective I decided I could also use some reminders on how to balance my various roles while doing my best at each. Several years ago I had read Julia Cameron's The Sound of Paper. It had been a beneficial experience, so when I saw The Artist Way At Work I purchased it. Only it sat on my bookshelf unread until June of this year. Running into my own little existential crisis I pulled it off the shelf three weeks ago. The book outlines a 12 week program for anyone looking to tap into the keys of creativity in the workplace and life in general. Only three weeks in, I am still attempting to reestablishing the habits I had put in place in 2008 which I long since let slide.

It was while I was having this self dialog about if one can truly be an artist while holding a full time job that I picked up Alaa Al Aswany's Friendly Fire. Standing in the bookstore I read the Preface trying to decide if I wanted to purchase this book. I came to section 2 where the author describes how he came to be a writer while working as a dentist in Cairo. I was instantly sold. Not only could I relate to the struggle but it was so eloquently written I knew I had to read more. Friendly Fire is a series of short stories each full of characters developed so beautifully I felt as if I knew them. Through Aswany's depictions the characters became real and present. I carried this book in my purse reading a short story during a break from work or while waiting for an appointment. I still have a couple more stories to read before I'm finished, yet I am certain I will be looking for Alwany's other works Chicago and The Yacoubian Building the moment I am done. Alaa Al Aswany a brilliant writer and for me an inspiration.

So where has all this left me with my question of artist vs employee? I decided it doesn't really matter. I have wasted enough time thinking about it. I am what I am. I do what I do. I'd rather expend my energy doing and I'll leave the labeling to someone else.
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We Are Like Glass

2011-06-28T10:32:00.002-05:00

Glass is a reminder of the strength and fragility

that exists in everyone of us.

Like glass, we are beautiful and luminous.

Like glass, we are fragile and shatter without care.

Like glass, we are also strong and powerful.

Like glass, we are reflections of our past.

Like the sands of glass, we can come together,

help each other, and accomplish amazing things.

Take care of the beauty and strength within yourself

and within everyone around you.

- Widely Credited to the National

Liberty Museum in Philadelphia

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The San Antonio Glass Art Guild is an opportunity for local glass artist and enthusiast to come together, help each other and accomplish amazing things. The Guild meets once a month, 10 months out of each year. Out next meeting will be:

When: June 30, 2011 at 6:30 PM
Where: Absolutely Everything Catering at 3915 San Pedro Avenue
Presentation: Guild member Louise Craig will present pictures and information from her experiences at this years Glass Art Society (GAS) Convention.

Transformation

2011-06-12T21:04:00.026-05:00

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Some painters transform the sun into a yellow spot,

others transform a yellow spot into the sun.

Pablo Picasso

Kiln Formed and Lathe Carved Soda Lime Glass

Now I do not know the context of this quote, but with as many mediums as Picasso worked in I'm surprised he would limit this statement to just painters. I smiled when I read this recently wondering briefly if I had achieved the first or later half of his statement. I honestly had no intention in bringing the sun out from behind the clouds but as I stood in front of the lathe it just seemed to happen. I enjoyed every moment of it and I guess that's the real sunshine.

Blue Bend

2011-06-05T23:18:00.011-05:00

Blue Bend - Flameworked and Kilnformed Glass

Saturday was my monthly visit to Artisans in Fredricksburg, Texas. I always enjoy this drive and the opportunity to observe the flora and fauna of the Hill Country as the seasons change. A good portion of my drive hugs the Blanco River as I wind through the Hill Country. Typically I catch glimpses of waterfalls and fisherman. Not today. Today what little I saw of water where the puddles left in a dry riverbed. The only sign of blue on this drive was in the box next to me as I delivered these pieces to Anne at Artisans with a silent prayer for rain.

Lunch Time Read

2011-06-03T17:36:00.001-05:00

On a recent visit to Half Price Books and Records on Broadway I picked up a slew of really fabulous art, glass and calligraphy related reads. It was like stumbling on my own personal treasure. Since then they have been stacked in a pile in the living room unread. This morning I grabbed Contemporary Glass a black dog publishing book from the top of that stack, as I made a mad dash for the door. Seems I'm always running in the morning. Later that afternoon I found a spot with a little sunshine to enjoyed a lunch time read. Contemporary Glass provided a light historical foundation focusing on the studio glass movement followed by the profiles of over 60 contemporary international glass artists. Sprinkled in a couple of spots where a handful of rather interesting essays. It was just perfect for a one hour break. I left lunch hungry to get into my own studio and get to work.

Parched Earth

2011-05-31T00:40:00.004-05:00

Parched Earth

Soda Lime Glass and Mica

4 9/8" Decorative Square Sushi Plates

Texas is presently experiencing the worst drought in 44 years with the driest 7-month span on record ever. While parts of the country are dealing with terrible floods and tragic tornado, Texas is slowly and quietly withering away. As the ground shifts and cracks, I watch the hot summer breeze kick up the dusty earth as it passes.

Navajo Blanket

2011-05-25T22:24:00.002-05:00

16 x 20" Flameworked and Kilnformed Soda Lime Glass

Taking inspiration from a Navajo Chief-Style Blanket, this piece begun with a conversation in January and ended up in a Texas Hill Country ranch home in May. The 1870 Navajo textile this piece takes inspiration from had beautiful color and motif. Staying true to the inspiration while accommodating my vision of this fabric like work of glass called for attention to detail from beginning to end. The entire piece is made of 1mm strings of glass. The end trim and highlighted seems are finished with twisted cane. It was slumped in a custom made mold to provide for the fabric like folds and finished with brackets to suspend the piece 1.5" from the wall.

A Visit with Big Dog Neon

2011-05-16T19:43:00.000-05:00

In the mood for a little adventure, I escaped from San Antonio for a Sunday Drive headed in the direction of Lockhart, Texas. There was no real agenda. It was just time to get off the beaten path and explore fresh territory.

It was approaching the end of the day already when we made a last minute stop to explore a quite little episcopal church. The moment I stepped out of the car I heard the sound of music streaming from the open doors of a two story brick building across the street. The front door was wide open and a soft glow came from inside. I looked up to see the sign Big Dog Neon and instantly knew I was standing in front of a glass studio. After exploring the church we strolled past Big Dog Neon and confirmed my suspicions. It's not terribly often you find a working neon artist, aso this was a real treat. Kirk Tunningley was busy at work inside. With a wide soft natural gas flame he skillfully bent glass tubing while chatting with a friend and welcoming our distraction. Vintage neon signs hung from every nook and cranny. A rainbow of colored lights hung above our heads, perfect for clients to select from available colors. The space was vast and I instantly begun to have studio envy. Who wouldn't absolutely love to work in this big brick building with so much space and character.

Here are a couple of links you might enjoy if you want to explore Big Dog Neon a little further:

Papel Picado

2011-05-14T22:19:00.002-05:00

Papel Picado
Kilnformed soda lime glass with layered imagery includes four 3 3/4" sushi plates, a 8x7" plate and a 6x11" platter

It was Fiesta in San Antonio when I started this series. Restaurant patios, school classrooms and street corners where all decorated with papel picado. I didn't make it downtown for Fiesta this year . I guess creating this series was my own little way of celebrating. Both fun and functional., I hope they bring a bit of the Fiesta spirit to a very special home. Just delivered earlier today, you can now find this new series at Artisans at Rocky Hill in Fredericksburg, Texas.

close up of the imagery on the 6x11" platter

Natural Attraction

2011-05-09T01:35:00.001-05:00

This time last year I was driving through the country side admiring the abundance of wildflowers. The vibrant colors splattered across fields as if they came straight from an artist paint pallet. This year is very different. I can't remember our last good rain. There certainly hasn't been one this spring. Already in stage 1 drought restrictions this years wildflowers came and went so quickly I wonder if it was a figment of my imagination. On my most recent drive south of San Antonio the landscape was gold, amber and red. The only real wildflowers to survive these conditions are the reds and yellows of the Indian Blanket and Mexican Hat. What caught my attention on this drive were the fields of wheat shining golden in the sun. Texas can be beautiful place both in the years lush from rain and when kissed by the sun. I imagine this will be a long dry summer during which the native grasses and fields of wheat will dance in the hot breeze of the afternoon.

These images were still fresh in my minds eye when Leah Fairbanks arrived at Wired Designs Studio to teach a workshop on Gardens of Glass. Although I personally do not make glass beads on the torch , I appreciate the skill involved and enjoy collecting beads from the visiting instructors I have had the privilege to meet. Leah brought a diverse selection of floral beads in almost every color pallet from pastels to deep rich tones . Presented with an assortment of brilliant and lush options what was I immediately attracted to? Why this vessels of amber wheat naturally. The golden stalks sit atop a vessel full of a blue gray color reaction with flecks of gold leaf sparkling in the light. Of all the beads Leah makes this may not be the most colorful or complicated but it was the one that was meant for me.

5cm glass bead by Leah Fairbanks

There's always a first time...

2011-05-02T23:23:00.000-05:00

11x7" Kilnformed and Coldworked Soda Lime Glass

Requests for commission pieces often come with a bit of a twist, asking for something just a little bit different then you are doing now or have done before. This particular request was for a platter to be used with both a candle and an incense stick. I've drilled many a hole in glass but never specifically to hold an incense stick. This was a first. The client in this case provided specifics for function and relative size. I had observed them admire two separate pieces, see below, prior to making their request. From this I pulled the design elements including; the color pallet of cool greens, grays and whites; the hammered satin finish; and lose comfortable pattern. In my view, this piece would need to not just preform the function of holding up the incense but also contribute to the desired state of relaxation. I hope I achieved that.

SAGAG April Meeting

2011-04-27T23:51:00.002-05:00

April 28, 2011

Dinner at 6:30pm

Meeting at 7:oopm

at Absolutely Everything Catering

3915 San Pedro, San Antonio Tx 78212

Presentations highlight San Anontio Glass Guild Cookbook tutorial contributors will including; Gail Stouffer of Wired Design Studio on Modern Glass Jewelery Design, Nina "Sam" Hibler of Dream Fire Glass on Flamedworked Leaves, and myself on Power Wafers.

Proceeds from the sales of the SAGAG cookbooks go to fund scholarships to workshops and conferences for SAGAG guild members. Cookbooks are available at SAGAG meetings or online on saglassguild.com.

Bulverde

2011-04-25T18:28:00.001-05:00

Bulverde

Torchworked, Kilnformed and Coldworked Glass Platter

This is the third and I expect the last of the bull inspired series of functional plate and platters. It began with Asta de Toro Azul. I enjoyed making these pieces so much I was encouraged to do it again with Against the Grain.

With Bulverde I took it a step further adding flameworked elements. I was also glad to see that others enjoyed the work as much as I did. Upon delivering this series to Artisans at Rocky Hill I watched as several pieces walked out the door on their way to new homes the very first day. Creating these pieces is wonderful but knowing they will go on to live full lives bringing joy to others is even better.

Pieces from the Bulverde series are available

through Artisans of Rocky Hill.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

2011-03-28T01:01:00.007-05:00

6" cast round of soda lime glass

applied to a 12x12" sandblasted mirror

Back in 2009, I learned how to make a five pointed star book. At the time I jotted down notes to come back and make a version of this book with the lyrics of "The Star" by Ann and Jane Taylor. "The Star" was originally published in Rhymes for the Nursery in 1806. Although I have not abandoned the idea, I have yet to make this book. The inspiration however still managed to find its' way out.

Hear are the five verses to "The Star". So many of us know the first stanza but how many of us today are familiar with much more. I certainly was not.

Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are!
Up above the world so high,
Like a diamond in the sky!

When the blazing sun is gone,
When he nothing shines upon,
Then you show your little light,
Twinkle, twinkle, all the night.

Then the traveller in the dark,
Thanks you for your tiny spark,
He could not see which way to go,
If you did not twinkle so.

In the dark blue sky you keep,
And often through my curtains peep,
For you never shut your eye,
Till the sun is in the sky.

As your bright and tiny spark,
Lights the traveller in the dark,—
Though I know not what you are,
Twinkle, twinkle, little star.
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by Ann and Jane Taylor

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Currently this piece is on display at Artisans of Rocky Hill. Framed and ready to be hung, this would be a lovely addition to a child's room. A contemporary connection to a very traditional pieces of Children's English Literature.

Luminaria 2011

2011-03-01T00:01:00.001-06:00

The San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) is excited to be one of the participants making our 4th annual appearance as Glass Alley, as part of San Antonio celebration of the arts Luminaria. We'll be there along with the San Antonio Society of Artisan Lampworkers (SALSA), Larry West and his mobile glassblowing unit and The Brothers of the Flame on the evening of Saturday, March 12, 2011. Check the Luminaria website for information on transportation, parking and the locations of participating artists. This fun and fascinating event is free to the public. Come and enjoy the festival atmosphere and stop by Glass Alley to say hello.

Handfuls of these little luminarias will use battery operated candles shining though handmade glass panels to help light tables of information on local San Antonio glass artists during the event
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See previous Luminaria posts from 2008 and 2010 to get an idea of what you can expect.

What is Dichroic Glass?

2011-02-23T00:12:00.005-06:00

Isadora 5" scooped square

dichroic glass with a black soda lime glass background

Now Available at Artisans at Rocky Hill

I often use dichroic glass as a design element most commonly in jewelry but also from time to time in functional glass items. When recently dropping off the series of pieces above at Artisan s in Fredericksburg, I chatted with several people about dichroic glass and why so many people find it so very attractive. I thought it might also be nice to share a little of that information with you here.

What exactly is dichroic glass? It's glass, typically clear or black, which has a thin film of quartz crystal and metal oxides (e.g. copper, silver, titanium, etc.) on its’ surface. To create this product metal oxides are heated in a vacuum chamber using a high voltage electron beam until they are vaporized and deposited on the surface of the glass. The glass may be coated multiple times (e.g. 15-45). The thickness, not more than 35 millionth of an inch, contributes to the beautiful colors we see. The coatings act as an optical filter which manipulates light. The brilliant colors we see are generated when light is reflected and refracted from it. Shifting a piece even slightly changes the color you see. The name dichroic comes from the root words di for two and chroma meaning color, literally two-color.

This iridescent quality is very difficult to fully capture in a photograph. To fully appreciate its’ luminescent qualities you really have to see it in person. So if you in the Texas Hill Country be sure to stop by Artisans at Rocky Hill on Fredericksburg's Main Street and ask Anne to show first hand you what I'm talking about. Or if you prefer to get some first had exprence in making your own fused glass jewlrey using dichroic glass you can sign up for a Fusing I workshop at Wire Designs Studio in San Antonio.

Misty Morning

2011-02-16T23:49:00.003-06:00

Misty Morning, 5 1/2" kilnformed soda lime glass

In the misty morning
The cold damp on my skin
My mind turns slowly and a thought begins

I need a pen and paper
To get these words out of my mind
Before their lost in the fog of time

Misty morning, without warning
Your gray blanket covers me
Filtered light; cold yet bright
Before I know it I can barley see

Driving down the road
The world out in front of me
I pray I’m on the path that's meant for me

In the morning light
Details start to be revealed
Like drops of water on my window shield

This silly stream of words got scribbled on a piece of scrap paper while I sat in traffic on my way to work one morning. Now I'm under absolutely no illusions that I'm a poet , that's pretty obvious, but that stream of thought did lead to this small grouping of pieces. I've just made the last of the five pieces, the 5.5" shallow bowl, available for purchase via Etsy.

Up Coming Workshops

2011-02-09T01:20:00.003-06:00

As much as I love working with glass I enjoy sharing knowledge with others crafters. If you find yourself interested in my work and wondering how you too could work with glass or if you are an experienced fuser looking for new techniques to add to your tool box, here are some of the workshops I am scheduled to teach in the next few months. You can sign up for classes in San Antonio by contacting Wired Designs Studio directly or online for Glass Craft & Bead Expo.

At Wired Designs Studio
in San Antonio, Texas

Introduction to Fusing - Sunday, February 27 9am-5:30pm
Introduction to Fusing - Saturday, April 30 9am-5:30pm

Casting I basic forms - Saturday, February 26 9am-5:30pm
Casting I basic forms - Saturday, June 11 9am-5:30pm
Casting II 3D Sculpture - 2-days Saturday & Sunday, June 25-26 9am-5:30pm
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Inclusions: Micas & Metals - 3-days March 4 6-9pm & the afternoon of March 5 & 6
Coldworking & Carving I - Sunday, May 1 9am-5:30pm
Lettering in Glass - Sunday, June 12 from 9am-5:30pm

Glass Craft and Bead Expo
in Las Vegas, Nevada

Impressions in Glass - Friday evening April 1 5-9pm

Feels Fabulous - 2-days Friday and Saturday April 1-2 8am-4pm

Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty.

~Henry Ford

Autumn's Flower

2011-02-05T09:33:00.001-06:00

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.

~Albert Camus

Autumn's Flower
8.5" bowl, Kilnformed Soda Lime Glass, Copper and Mica

Available through Wired Designs Studio

Small Scale Work for a Larger Cause

2011-02-03T22:27:00.002-06:00

Winter's Garden; Soda Lime Glass and Enamels
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I am excited to be one of many artists contributing a total of 200 pieces of artwork in a variety of disciplines in support of SAY Si. The Small Scale exhibit runs the entire of month of February and can also be viewed online. It culminates with one of the best fund raising events in town featuring food, drink and a silent auction were 100% of the proceeds benefit SAY Si. SAY Si's tuition free programs helps San Antonio youth development artistic and social skills in preparation for higher educational and professional careers. Small Scale serves as both a fundraiser for SAY Sí’s award-winning programs, and a survey of up-and-coming, mid-career and established artists current work.

The exhibit opens to the Public on First Friday

February 4th from 6-9 PM

Free Admission

The exhibit remains on display through February 24, 2011

Gallery Hours: Mon-Thurs 11 AM - 7 PM

Fri & Sat 9 AM - 5 PM; Closed Sun.
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Small Scale Benefit will be held Friday, February 25, 6:30 - 9:30 PM. Admission is $40 per person for tickets purchased in advance and $50 at the door.

SAY Sí Central, 1518 South Alamo Street, San Antonio TX 78204

Enticing Beginnings & Sweet Endings

2011-01-26T15:43:00.002-06:00

In October of 2010, the San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) published a beautiful full color cookbook with many of its' members favorite recipes. The cookbook, Enticing Beginnings & Sweet Endings, contains sections on soups, salads, appetizers and deserts. In addition to all the excellent recipes, it also includes eight tutorials by local glass and metal artist myself included. My tutorials include how to use a butane torch to manipulate stringer and how to create powder wafers, two techniques I use often.

Proceeded from the cookbooks' sales go to support the creation of a scholarship fund for SAGAG members to attend workshops, conferences and other educational opportunities. Cookbooks can be purchased at Wired Designs Studio by cash or check, online from the glass guilds website, or at one of the monthly SAGAG meetings. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Lettering in Glass Workshop at Wired

2011-01-09T20:25:00.003-06:00

We had our first ever Lettering in Glass workshop yesterday at Wired Designs Studio. Students spent the day exploring ways a variety of techniques to letter on or in glass. It was quite the experience to see a group of some of my favorite fusers exploring new ideas and materials.

I left them with a list of resources including my favorite calligraphic references such as Calligraphic Lettering with a Wide Pen & Brush by Ralph Douglass and Lettering on Glass by Charmian Mocatta. Peruse these books yourself and see if next time you might be inspired to try it yourself. My next Lettering in Glass workshop will be Sunday, June 26, 2001 from 9:00am-5:00pm. For more information and to sign up contact Wired Designs Studio at 210-495-4495.

Still a Child at Heart

2011-01-07T22:41:00.003-06:00

I'm not sure I will ever out grow a good children's book. Having a young niece is just an excuse to prose the stacks of children's literature in my favorite books stores. When I find something as good as Liu and the Bird, A Journey in Chinese Calligraphy I snap up not just one but two copies. One for my niece and that's right, one for me. Although I have enjoyed flipping through the pages of this book on my own, I can not wait for the opportunity to sit down with my niece to read this delightful tale and discuss the Chinese Calligraphy that accompanies each page.

This is a book I'm sure many of my friends in the San Antonio Calligraphy Guild (SACG) would enjoy as well. I picked up my copy at Half Price Books and Records for about the same price as used copy available online.

Lettering in Glass

2010-12-30T16:05:00.002-06:00

Understanding Ana

12 x 9.5 cm framed, soda lime glass and enamel

Like so many, I crafted and created all sorts of things long before I ever came to work with glass. Along the way, I was exposed to all kinds of techniques and materials, some of which I still enjoy and share with you here from time to time (e.g. crochet, calligraphy, photography and bookbinding). These are not experiences one just checks at the studio door. In fact, they often contribute to the design or direction a particular work in glass may take.

Of particular interested to me has been bringing my love of calligraphy to my work in glass. So I am very excited to be offering a one day workshop highlighting multiple ways to letter in glass. During this workshop we will work both on the surface of glass and in/with glass itself learning to etch, sandblast and carve lettering onto the surface as well as using various techniques to apply enamels and glass powders which will be kiln fired.

This class will offer techniques fusers can include in their “toolbox” for design. But it is not just for fusers. Open to anyone interested in lettering, this is a great opportunity for calligraphers, scrapbookers, or writers to experiment with ways to capture words in glass.

Joy

12x12" sandblasted and kinformed float glass

Lettering in Glass workshops are scheduled for Saturday, January 8, 2011 from 9:00am-5:00pm and Sunday, June 26, 2001 from 9:00am-5:00pm. For more information and to sign up contact Wired Designs Studio at 210-495-4495.

Crocheted Scarves

2010-12-15T23:34:00.003-06:00

With fall in full force and the solstice less then a week away, I have begun to break out my winter wardrobe. As I head off to work I find myself reaching for a scarf or hat to stave off the chill of the morning air. Each year when this happens I instinctively react by reaching for a crochet hook and a skein of yarn, as if I needed yet another ten foot scarf with tassels. This year is no different. So as I have an abundance of winter accessories, I decided to share this year's creations with others by posting a selection of my handmade crocheted scarves on Etsy. Each one is unique and a great addition to your winter attire. Pick one up for yourself or as a truly warm gift for someone you care about.

You can see these and other crocheted scarves on my Etsy Store.

Glass Craft & Bead Expo 2011

2010-12-07T12:15:00.009-06:00

I am very excited to announce I have been invited to teach at the 2011 Glass Craft & Bead Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. In 2011, Glass Craft & Bead Expo will be March 30th through April 3rd. The show room floor will be open April 1st through the 3rd.

FEELS FABULOUS!

A 2- day workshop for all skill levels

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How a finished piece feels in your hands is as important as how it looks visually. Learn what goes into making glass feel smooth as satin, as well as how to create dynamic textures. Students will learn a variety of fusing and cold working techniques to add additional interest and complexity to their finished work. They will work with Bullseye powder, frit, stringer and sheet glass to create surface application that enhances the overall work. We will discuss when and how to utilize primers, fiber paper/blanket and lava cloth to achieve specific results. Make a piece people will pick up and never want to put down. There is all kinds of good information for any fuser who is ready to take their work to the next level.

Friday 8:00am-4:00pm and Saturday 8:00am-4:00pm

Price: $525.00
Materials fee of $45.00 per person payable to instructor
Class Code: FR-48-A

IMPRESSIONS IN GLASS

Drop your chisel and learn how to achieve a sculpted look in your glass with the assistance of your kiln. We will design and create bas relief images and textures using fiber paper to form impressions in glass. This is a wonderful technique to add dimension and pattern with economy of both labor and materials. Use the smooth clean surface on top and look through to the pattern within the glass. Or turn it over and not only see but feel the shapes and textures.

Friday Evening 5:00pm-9:00pm

Price: $145.00
Materials fee of $45.00 per person payable to instructor

Class Code: FR-E-56

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You can sign up for this and other workshops online at the Glass Craft & Bead Expo website.
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The Glass Bathyscaphe, How Glass Changed the World

2010-12-06T01:17:00.002-06:00

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I recently completed an on again off again reading of The Glass Bathyscaphe, How Glass Changed The World by Alan Macfarlane and Gerry Martin. The book delives into the history of glass looking at the impacts this material had on science, art, education and society. The excerpt below is taken from the chapter on glass and the Renaissance. I enjoyed this chapter in particular and thought I would share a bit of it with you here.

"Prespective and realist portraits are natural and normal, but usually the cultural conventions of a society teach artists and others that the representations their audience want are not of this kind. Artists are, as it were, systematically taught to distort the world they see and would normally portray, in order to make it fit a symbolic system which conveys deeper meaning then the prosaic world of sight. What is the point of art if it mearly duplicates what the eye sees?"

- from The Glass Bathyscaphe

Yulefest

2010-12-04T16:31:00.001-06:00

Yulefest Arts and Craft Show

Sponsored by the Seguin Oakwood Art League

Tomorrow

Sunday, December 5th

from 10am to 5pm

the Seguin Coliseum

810 S. Guadalupe Street in Seguin, Texas

Nina "Sam" Hibler from Dream Fire Glass and I will have glass jewelry, functional and art items for sale at this one day event in Seguin, Texas. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the charming town of Seguin and do some holiday shopping. Handcrafted items make unique one of a kind gifts that stand apart from department store finds. If you make it out please stop by, say hello and take a look at the wonderful glass items on display. Hope to see you there!

'Tis the Season for Jewels

2010-12-01T20:54:00.006-06:00

Trunk Show
Friday, December 3rd

Noon until 8:00 pm

Artisans at Rocky Hill proudly presents ‘Tis the Season for Jewels” A Trunk Show, showcasing six Hill Country jewelry artists. This delightful Holiday event will introduce visitors, not only to the latest creations by these talented ladies but, also provide the opportunity to meet the artists, enjoy the development of their work plus purchase never before seen pieces. The Holiday Season is the perfect time of year for giving locally created, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces to your special someone.

The show is from 12:00 pm until 8:00 pm during First Friday Art Walk Fredericksburg. Jewelry artists unveiling their never-before-seen pieces and demonstrating their unique gift are Debra Carlise of Austin, Anna Elrod of Austin, Nicole Lozano of San Antonio, Dottie Moon of Hye, and Michele Thomas of Boerne.

Enjoy the season, along with the many galleries located in the historic district of downtown Fredericksburg, during First Friday Art Walk Fredericksburg.

Wines by Torre di Pietra will be served along with cheeses by the Amish Market.

Artisans at Rocky Hill

http://www.artisansatrockyhill.com/

234 West Main St., Fredericksburg, Texas 78624

(830) 990-8160
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Clay Ole & Friends

2010-11-14T23:56:00.004-06:00

I am excited to be participating the 2010 San Antonio Potters Guild annual Clay Ole event. This event is free and open to the public. Hand crafted work from local and regional potters, glass and fiber artists will be on display and available for purchase from 10am to 5pm at the San Antonio Jewish Community Center's Holzman Auditorium located at 12500 N.W. Military Highway in San Antonio, Texas. Look forward to seeing you there.

Uptown Art Stroll 2010

2010-10-29T01:24:00.003-05:00

Uptown Art Stroll

Saturday, November 6 from 10am to 5pm

and

Sunday, November 7 from Noon to 5pm

You'll find me and several other members of the San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) at the home of SAGAG member Louise Craig. Stop by to enjoy the glass blowing demonstrations by Larry West. The work of a variety of fine glass craftsman will be on display and available for purchase. See map for location of this and other Art Stroll participants.

San Antonio Glass Art Guild October Meeting

2010-10-15T07:54:00.003-05:00

San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) Meeting

Saturday October 16, 2010 at 7:00pm

Hosted by

Wired Design Studio

555 West Bitters

San Antonio, TX 78216

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Join us for Janice Peacock's presentation on Full Circle: A Glass Beadmaker's Jouney. Janice has a diverse background in theater and ancient culture. Hearing about her full circle journey through the created life should be quite interesting. See you there!
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St. Thomas Episcopal Church Fall Festival

2010-10-11T22:47:00.004-05:00

Thank you to everyone who stopped by ART281 last Saturday. Next you will find me at the St. Thomas Episcopal Church Fall Festival on Saturday, October 23 from 10am to 7pm. This looks to be a fun filled day for family and friends to enjoy actives, food and music, in addition to arts and crafts. I'm looking forward to the excitement. Hope to see you and your family.

St. Thomas Episcopal Church Fall Festival

Saturday, October 23

10am to 7pm

ART281 - Today

2010-10-09T05:58:00.004-05:00

The San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG) is sponsoring ART281 an one day venue for artists and art organizations to display, promote and sell their art work directly to the public. The event takes place today on the grounds of My Place Bar & Grille from 10:00am to 6:00pm. I will be their along with around 40 other artists. More information, including a list of participating artists, is available at http://www.art281.com/. Stop by and enjoy the festival atmosphere with dancers, musicians and artists.

My Place Bar & Grille

29094 US Highway 281 North

Bulverde, Texas 78163-3105

Just 8 miles outside Loop 1604

North on US Highway 281

Brushing Up with the Help of a Few Resource

2010-09-13T23:22:00.004-05:00

The San Antonio Glass Art Guild's (SAGAG) recent excursion to view the Mathews collection of art glass at the Mcnay Museum had me pulling books off my shelves to refresh and expand my knowledge of Art Nouveau and Art Deco glass work. The exhibit is heavy with French glass including a few pieces from Rene Lalique but many Emile Galle and the Daum brothers. It's a lovely collection if you have the opportunity to see it. Here are the books I pulled off my shelf for a little "homework".

Art Nouveau by Gabriele Fahr-Becker breaks down it's information by location allowing you to see the impact of particular parts of Europe and America on the Art Nouveau movement. It provides the reader with resources like a basic glossary, high level artist bios and a complete reference list. This book was a educational resource which provided information on various art and craft influences including glass. For the purpose of my review I narrowed in on the chapters on Paris and Nancy France.

I reviewed America & European Glass, from the Dayton Institute a catalogue of work from the Dayton Institutes Eilleen Dicke Gallery of Glass which includes both Art Nouveau and Art Deco work.

And I read Introduction to Art Nouveau Style by William Hardy, which includes chapters on specific craft media including glass. Although brief this chapter provides a high level overview of the who/how glass was used from the 1870s through the early 20th century. Published in the United Kingdom in 1986 this book is not as readily available as others. I'm not entirely sure how or when I came to own a copy of it myself.

If you know of any others I should read on the subject please let me know.
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McNay Docent Art Glass Tour

2010-08-16T00:55:00.002-05:00

Thursday, August 26

at 7:00 PM

I am excited to be organizing a special docent tour of the Jeanne and Irving Mathews Collection of Art Glass at the McNay Museum, on hehalf of the San Antonio Glass Art Guild (SAGAG).

The Jeanne and Irving Mathews Collection of Art Glass, was assembled by Mrs. Mathews with her husband, Irving, who passed away in 1993. Focused on the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods in France, the exhibit includes work from Daum Frères and Emile Gallé to René Lalique, as well as rare works by Gabriel Argy-Rousseau, François Decorchement, and Jacques Gruber. This first showing of art glass from the Mathews Collection appears in specially designed cases, ideal for small sculpture and decorative arts, on the Garden Level of the Stieren Center for Exhibitions.

To particiate, you will need to bring $5 per person. This includes your museum admission. Upon completion of the docent tour of the glass exhibit, you will have access to view other exhibits at your leasure.

Ophelia

2010-08-15T23:38:00.002-05:00

Since Shakespeare wrote of Ophelia and her demise an abundance of artists, writers, actors and musicians have applied their perspective to her story and used her image symbolically. To which I add my own, currently on display as part of the Kerrville Art & Cultural Center as part of their invitational glass show Luminous.

8 1/2" in diameter 1/2" thick cast glass bowl

Several years ago, I shared with you the Ophelia series of glass beads created by Nina “Sam” Hibler. They were inspired, I believe, in part by the Pre-Raphaelite painting of Ophelia created by John Everett Millais. For the last 12 years an Ophelia like print of The Young Martyr by Paul Delaroche has hung in my home. Although I was not consciously considering it when I made this piece, it obviously had an effect. Other influences included Arthur Rimbaud’s poem on the subject.

On the calm black water where the stars are sleeping

White Ophelia floats like a great lily;

Floats very slowly, lying in her long veils...

In the far-off woods you can hear them sound the mort.

For more than a thousand years sad Ophelia

Has passed, a white phantom, down the long black river.

For more than a thousand years her sweet madness

Has murmured its ballad to the evening breeze.

The wind kisses her breasts and unfolds in a wreath

Her great veils rising and falling with the waters;

The shivering willows weep on her shoulder,

The rushes lean over her wide, dreaming brow.

The ruffled water-lilies are sighing around her;

At times she rouses, in a slumbering alder,

Some nest from which escapes a small rustle of wings;

A mysterious anthem falls from the golden stars.

O pale Ophelia! beautiful as snow!

Yes child, you died, carried off by a river!

It was the winds descending from the great mountains of Norway

That spoke to you in low voices of better freedom.

It was a breath of wind, that, twisting your great hair,

Brought strange rumors to your dreaming mind;

It was your heart listening to the song of Nature

In the groans of the tree and the sighs of the nights;

It was the voice of mad seas, the great roar,

That shattered your child's heart, too human and too soft;

It was a handsome pale knight, a poor madman

Who one April morning sate mute at your knees!

Heaven! Love! Freedom! What a dream, oh poor crazed Girl!

You melted to him as snow does to a fire;

Your great visions strangled your words

And fearful Infinity terrified your blue eye!

III

And the poet says that by starlight

You come seeking, in the night, the flowers that you picked

And that he has seen on the water, lying in her long veils

White Ophelia floating, like a great lily.

Arthur Rimbaud
Ophelia As translated by Oliver Bernard
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Warm Glass Resources

2010-08-14T23:19:00.001-05:00

Today I lead a Fusing I workshop at Wired Designs Studio. During these classes, I like to direct students to resources they can go to review the material we discussed. Consistently the resources I have recommend include Contemporary Warm Glass by Brad Walkers and Richard La Londe's Fused Glass Art and Technique. This Year Brad Walker put out a updated version of his book as Contemporary Fused Glass. It includes much of the same content as the original but with updated technical information and examples of contemporary glass artwork. This is a great resource for anyone interesting in pursuing kiln formed glass. My advice to students, read it through so you are familiar with what it contains. Then keep it handy so you can refer back to it with you have questions or are preparing for a project.

inter-fuse

2010-08-14T00:21:00.003-05:00

Please join Gail Stouffer, Liza Connell and the rest of the Wired Designs team as we celebrate the successful completion of yet another intermediate seminar. This one night show will highlight the work of eight glass and ten metals students whose work demonstrates the increased technical depth they have achieved during this intensive nine week course.

Thursday, August 19th

7:00 PM

Get Wired...

2010-08-13T00:41:00.001-05:00

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When working at Wired Designs Studio I often get asked, "why Wired Designs... where did that come from". Well, here's a hint.
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The Golden Bowl

2010-08-04T00:38:00.005-05:00

or the golden bowl be broken...

Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was;

and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

Ecclesiastes 12:6-7

I love to read. At times I latch on to a subject or an author and read until all is consumed or the hunger is satisfied whichever comes first. As a young girl I devoured Jane Austin and Jack London at different times for different reasons. Down the road a bit, I found myself reading the work of Henry James. I return to one novel, The Golden Bowl, every few years. The story focuses on two couples, but it is the women Charlotte and Maggie who stand out to me. Childhood friends who grow to be such different women in character and temperament, they become an interesting study of femininity.

When working on my version of the golden bowl, an object that crosses between these two women and revels all, I took into consideration not only the object in the story but the character of those who come in contact with it. The bowl in the story is fragile. It cracks not only furthering the plot but somewhat symbolic of the situation the characters find themselves in. My Golden Bowl is not delicate at all. Rather it is substantial and strong, like the characters themselves. The female silhouette with the cinched waist of corseted Victorian woman, shines on the surface. I wonder, whose path will my Golden Bowl cross. What stories might it become a part of? At present you can cross the path of this piece by stopping in the Artisans of Rocky Hill gallery in Fredricksburg, Texas.
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Luminous

2010-07-27T05:18:00.023-05:00

The following pieces will be on display as part of Luminous the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center Invitational Glass Arts Show. The Show runs from July 29 through August 29, 2010 with a reception on August 21 from 1-3 in the afternoon.

Kerr Arts and Cultural Center

228 Earl Garrett Street

Kerrville, Texas 78028

Hours of Operation

Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

and Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.

Ophelia
8 1/2" in diameter 1/2" thick cast glass bowl

Le Femme
three 5 1/4" cast and footed shallow glass bowls

Rose de Petale
a series of three glass and mica plates

Closer Look at the Bee and Butterfly

2010-07-23T00:59:00.006-05:00

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Take a closer look at two of the pieces in this month's exhibit at the SAVA Gallery.

A visit from these pollinators is a blessing to any park or garden. You can attract butterflies and bees to your garden by adding native plants with colorful blooms. Here are just a few suggestions:

Lavender's lovely scent attracts butterflies
Purple Coneflower/Echinacea Purpurea attracts butterflies growing easily with little care
Lemon Balm, Thyme and Borage all attract bees

For more information on planting a butterfly and bee friendly garden check out this article by Ben Groves over at Suite101.com .
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SAVA Gallery Opening Tonight

2010-07-14T19:19:00.008-05:00

Wednesday, July 13th at 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

SAVA Gallery at Rivercenter Mall

849 East Commerce

San Antonio, TX

The SAVA Gallery will be presenting work from local visual artists with summer in mind. "Let's Go Parking" is the theme of this month's show. The exhibit will be on display for the month of July. A nice cool refreshing break if you're walking the streets of downtown San Antonio this summer.

Glass Touch

Inspiration and Aspiration

Goodbye GQ. Hello Etsy.

Cold Hands Warm Heart

What a Weekend

Practice, Practice, Practice

Recommended Read

Fill our heart with sunshine and good thoughts!

From Goldilocks to Dreadlocks

Unconsciously Done

Just joined ISGB

December Treasuries

Merry Christmas

Christmas Combing

Workshops Winter/Spring 2012

Twisted Cane and Latachino

Weekend Workshop

A Day of Thanksgiving

Blue and White Decoractive and Functional Glass

Full Moon

Visiting Artist Johnathon Schmuck

I can relate...

Get one while you have the chance...

Uptown Art Stroll

Recent Workshops

Fall finally blows in...

St. Thomas Episcopal Art and Craft Fair

Asta de Toro Azul

VIPink San Antonio Event

Driving Home...

A Weekend Well Spent

First Day of Fall

Waterjet Cutting Glass & Metal

Cross Fire

McAllen Adventure

Fire Good

Cool Down with a Cool Drink

Pattern Bar Workshop

Sana, Sana, Colita de Rana

Right Under Your Feet

Under the Influence

Wherefore "Art" Thou?

Vitrigraph Twisted Cane

Red Hot

Kiln Carving Workshop

Calligraph Exchange

Remembering one Stich at a Time

Stopping to Blow Bubbles

Summer and Fall Fusing Workshops

Black and White

What's growing in the garden?

Mind over Matter - Think Cool

Making My Own Art Journal - Part 2

Making My Own Art Journal

At Home with Glass

Star Light Star Bright

Glass Weaving Workshop

The Existential Question Artist or Employee

We Are Like Glass

Transformation

Blue Bend

Lunch Time Read

Parched Earth

Navajo Blanket

A Visit with Big Dog Neon

Papel Picado

Natural Attraction

There's always a first time...

SAGAG April Meeting

Bulverde

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

Luminaria 2011

What is Dichroic Glass?

Misty Morning

Up Coming Workshops

Autumn's Flower

Small Scale Work for a Larger Cause

Enticing Beginnings & Sweet Endings

Lettering in Glass Workshop at Wired

Still a Child at Heart