Musings Of A Fuser

Oregon Serendipity

2011-05-02T23:33:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I was in Portland. An unexpected trip that offered a wonderful opportunity to see some amazing glass artist in one small place. The Oregon Glass Guild www.oregonglassguild.org had their 11th Annual Glass Gallery Show & Sale at the Portland Convention Center. Two things happened that made this trip a reality. Sara decided she wanted to come home for Passover and take books and mementos home with her if I drove her back. Then around that time I read that a glass artist I met on Facebook was participating and the plans took off from there. Arrived Thursday night and early Friday Sara delivered me to the center's front door. Walked into a free event that was eye candy for glass both art lovers and artist.
The first thing I did was check out the Gallery where every artist was represented. Then I went to meet Linda Steider. Her booth was easy to find as I recognized her style. Her painting on glass is detailed and the gold accents are the finishing touch. Love the touch of whimsy on some of her pieces too. Since it was early I had time to introduce myself and spend some time for shop talk before more people showed up.
After viewing all 69 booth's I was overwhelmed, stimulated, inspired, and yet felt so comfortable there I wanted to stay longer. I forgot to bring a camera. Not sure if I could have taken any pictures. You can see Linda's work on her facebook page After three hours I called for my ride home. Tired but very happy.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Steider-Studios/109500489072770

www.oregonglassguild.org

A Learning Experience

2011-04-21T23:31:00.000-07:00

Last week a student made an appointment to make some pendants for herself and friends. She came prepared with the design and the colors were already chosen. It sounded like an easy project and as I laid out the process choices for her the decisions came quickly. Until I discovered I did not have the correct shade of green she wanted and needed. A compromise was made using frit instead of a solid piece of glass. The size was to be a 1 1/2 inch circle. Again no problem. A square fused will become a circle. We all know glass melted will draw into itself to a thickness of 1/4 inch.

All goes well using the cut pieces and the frit to finish the design. Added a piece of clear, waited till the next day to fuse. I fused the pieces and though they fused well, they were still square-ish!!! I stared in disbelief. Where were the circles? What happened? I have done this so many times with nice round results.

Hours later I realized three layers were used and of course it was already a quarter of an inch thick. I went to work grinding and shaping and when it looked more rounded I refired. Better, but not round enough. If this was for me I would have adjusted how I was going to use the pieces. But this was a special personal project by a customer. After the disappointment we discussed ways to make it into a circle. She has access to a powerful grinder and before redoing the project she is going to try and grind it into shape. If it works, I will then fire polish the circles. Otherwise she will start over and use different materials like glass paints or powders. Or let her try cutting small circles.

I learned I need to remember all factors when teaching and guiding and not get hung up on providing the correct sizes and colors that were asked for while forgetting the basics.

Changes coming

2011-04-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, changes are coming. And as with most changes I am not sure how they will end up. Since Eric retired he expressed a desire to start learning about fused glass and work with me in my studio. I have often asked for his opinion about color or balance. It is important to get a critical eye to spot a weak design or to express an option I did not think of, because I work alone it is easy to lose perspective. These are the reasons I call for his help and he has shown he has a good eye. Just as he takes great photos his sense of balance and compisition can be used designing glass art work too.

This is the problem, where can we both work? The studio is small and because of that I do most of my larger and messier work in the warmer months when I use the patio outside my studio. We would like to work year round and vacation or take time off whenever we want. We need a new space. Do we move, convert a room in our house near the studio, or finish off the garage? We are exploring all these options as I get ready for Silicon Valley's 25th year Open Studio. I remember all those years participating as a looker and sometimes buyer. Thinking someday I will offer my art work. I hope to have some answers by the end of May. In the mean time more work and clean up and sorting to do by the opening on Mother's Day weekend May 7 and 8. I am signed up to show on the first 2 weekends so you have 4 days to stop by and visit my site.

Back to work

2011-03-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

Took a little time off for R&R. Rested up, read a lot and then ended my down time with a trip to the San Diego area for fun exploring and visiting friends. Have not visited the San Diego attractions in about 20 years. The museums were both restful and exciting and full of refreshing energy. The weather was wonderful, sunny and a refreshing cool made it easy for outdoor sightseeing. The zoo had new renovations in the works and that put a tiny crimp on the visit. Visited the La Jolla Scrip's Contemporary Art Museum and the aquarium a few days later. On both days we witnessed beautiful sunsets on the beach. I will add photos today.

Did not escape work altogether though. Thankfully I took my laptop, because I get an email from Silicon Valley Open Studio to proof my information for the spring catalogue. The due date to submit changes would have passed by the time I got home. There were a few errors. They had me listed as a sculptor instead of a glass artist. That would have been really bad especially since there are only 3 glass artist showing this May. People would have been disappointed and my sales would have been compromised. Problem averted and I am home and have new ideas for the show and how to set up this time. I am on my site alone this year so the space is all mine.

There is a new feature with open studio this year. On sites with multiple artist they are offering people to be mentored by appropriate venue artist. Painters, fabric artist or potters for example may have a novice looking on and learning from an established artist. I offered even though I am alone because there so few artist working with glass. The rules were already set and they said my offer was understandable under the circumstances, but "no thank you." Maybe next time exception can be made if this happens again.

It is studio time again and when it stops raining I will be able to bring my work

equipment out on the patio and have more room inside. The grinder and 2 wet saws are messy and takes up a lot of room. And working with glass powder is easier outside unless it is windy of course. Thinking of using the sunsets as an inspiration. The sunset coloring with the people in silhouette is my favorite photo on this recent mini vacation. You can see that photograph here. This will be my guiding force as I select my glass colors.

Fantastic New Bottle Cutter

2011-02-21T21:48:00.000-08:00

Below today's post there is a video showing a wine bottles being cut with the new bottle cutter from Delphi. If interested you can check out the glass supplies at www.delphiglass.com. I saw it offered this year online and later in their catalogue. I know two people who have ordered it but, no reports yet about their success. I passed on buying one when it was offered at a special price and I probable will regret it. I can always pay full price or wait for another sale. If it is anywhere as good as the video this is even better and easier than using a wet saw and well worth the price. I have used a wet saw and there is more glass loss and far far messier and wetter. Using a wet saw is still more versatile when angled cut are desired.

Decorated wine bottle trays in front

During the last few years I have used wine bottles to make trays, spoon rest, sushi and cheese platters. I have added decorative features, handles and wire hooks to make them easier to use. I still have many cases of clean bottles waiting to make vases, glasses and holders. Between my wet saw and this cutter my summer project will be easier and faster. Wow, here's a thought. It would be a perfect demonstration to use for Open Studio in May.

Perfect Edge Bottle Cutter in 30 seconds

2011-02-21T21:09:00.000-08:00

Silicon Valley Open Studio

2011-02-19T21:22:00.000-08:00

It is official I am participating in this year's Open Studio. Visitors will be coming by the first 2 weekends in May. This will be my 4th time. My work has changes so much. In the beginning I offered collage work and decoupage boxes including Judaic theme Shabbat candle boxes. Next time I painted and decorated metal chair planters along with Mah Jongg tile jewelry and Menorahs. During this time I was taking classes learning the fundamentals of fused glass art. The medium is such a complex and fascinating art form.

I finally offered for sale my fused glass at the 2008 Open Studio. I waited until I felt my work was good enough and my studio was available for viewing. We are asked to let visitors in our work space and be available to demonstrate what we do. Having people around glass was problematic for me. I needed to find something to show without having a lot of cut glass around. I decided to demonstrate the cold work needed to finish off a fused piece before the final fire polish firing. I turned out some people even asked to use the grinder to see what it was like to smooth out the piece. I will probably to it again this year.

I focus on one or two major shows a year. Last year was the To Life Jewish Festival and The Sun Gallery Boutique. I find the spacing is enough to produce enough fused glass without too much pressure. Also, I need space to store the completed pieces until the next show. This Open Studio will probably be the last one at this house. The next place I set up a glass studio will be planned to allow for work space and storage. More to follow. See you in May.

Just Having Fun "smashing glass"

2011-02-08T23:01:00.000-08:00

This is the time of year I just kick back and have fun in the studio. The 2010 shows are over, the unsold merchandise is repacked and waiting for the new season to start.

Since participating in the Sun Gallery Holiday Boutique, I joined ArtFire to sell online. Ran into problems and have yet to set up my page. I am better working with glass than I am with web sites. I went to Half Moon Bay a while ago with friends and bought blown glass rocks by the pound. I have used this type of glass used for glass blowing in the past to make unusual jewelry pieces. The excess glass is junked on the hot glass floor and discarded. It is often multi colored and when smashed with a hammer I clean and fire the smaller pieces. Some don't look good and I throw them away, but there are enough surprisingly lovely results to make it worth while. My friends spent time in my studio and chose the glass they wanted to work with. After a few hesitant blows with the hammer they smashed and then gathered the smaller pieces. Using mini molds for specific shapes and firing without molds many cabochons were made. After firing , shaping and fire polishing my friends came back ready to make pins, earrings, and pendants. If you ever have a chance try doing this. It is lots of fun. I forgot to get photos before they took their art work home. Sorry. Maybe I will post some of mine when I am finished. Of course, I am the last one to work on this project.

Kiln shut down

2010-11-26T19:48:00.000-08:00

Terrible timing last month, I had a private session scheduled on 10/31 that went well. After she left and the glue dried it was time to start firing and I found out the controller went kaput. Crapped out, failed and with the most awful noise. Called my kiln distributor and the end result, best guess, is that the relay died. Waited for the replacement and it did not work. Back to square one waiting for more new parts, throw in a vacation before Thanksgiving and end result no work done since the beginning of October.

The new parts came today and it still does not sound right. Will try a trial firing this weekend. If it does not work properly, it will be time to call in a repairman. I never expected a big problem so soon. Of course it happened within 6 months of the warranty period. I do not use it every day and not with high firings, so it is a bit unusual. Need to continue to prepare for my next holiday show in December with something else.

Festival Update

2010-11-01T22:31:00.000-07:00

OK, here it is. I have put it off long enough. "The Too Life Festival" was not to successful for most of us this time around. I covered my fee and a bit more, that is very disappointing after the last time I attended when I made very good sales. Everyone blamed the economy and that the event was in October instead of September as usual. And many people were busy with sports or weddings on 10/10/10, because attendance was lower than normal too.

After taking my time to repack and restock my shelves with my fused glass so that I can find what I need for later sales, I took some time off. Since I worked all summer we postponed a short vacation. Just got back from Pacific Grove. Needed to recharge and the ocean really does that for me. In fact water in general does that for me. Must be because I grew up living 50 feet from a river.

I am back and all set to work. One of the people stopping at my booth asked about any classes I offered. After following up with her she came this weekend and completed a plate. Sunday I was ready to fire her project and my kiln kept on making alarm sounds. Just great I thought. In addition to her firing I needed to make a few more items for a holiday boutique. My kiln is only 3 years old. Called my distributor and after hearing the sound using my cell phone he figured out that it is a broken relay not a broken alarm. New part on the way.

To Life Festival is on Sunday

2010-10-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

This week I am counting down the few days remaining for the "To Life Festival". The photo today is of my new holder designs. The curved holders have a slot between the glass and can hold photos, cards of all type, recipes, family messages, even bills. So the next time you get a new photo, display it this way, because you know another photograph is going to come your way again and you can just switch it out or keep adding more.

I am happy to report that my flame vase was the photo included in the Northern California "j" insert about the annual festival here in Palo Alto. Nice size and name spelled right. The banner I ordered with the same photo arrived last week so the tie in is great and hopefully attendees will recognize the vase when they stroll by the artist booths. There are a few last minute firings, of course I had an inspiration when I saw one of my molds would work well with a piece of glass I was holding.

I am including the To Life Festival web site http://pajcc.org/ to find maps and general info along with a listing of all the artist. I am in booth 120.

News Alert

2010-09-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have a news alert due to the most unexpected e-mail. Last week I was contacted by the photo editor of the " j " www.jweekly.com the Jewish news weekly of Northern California. I was asked to submit two photos of my fused glass for the edition containing information about the "To Life Festival." I was floored, where to start. What to send, which pictures would look good in a newspaper, and what to name them. Yes, I was asked to put a name to each item sent. One of the photographs I sent by email was fuzzy so I started again and sent a different view of the photo she liked best along with a different vase for a back up photo . The vase I hope gets used is the one on my new banner. If "j" readers see my vase and then see the banner it will be a terrific recognition opportunity for me. I could not have asked for more or better advertising of my art work.

I know, you are asking how did she know about me or the type of art I do. I wondered too. Then remembered I'm included in the festival's web site along with all the other artist.

It will be the first time my fused glass work will be viewed in a newspaper. I have had my name and category of art mentioned before and news articles unrelated to my art work. Now I wait to to see the finished article. Just like waiting for the kiln to cool down before I can open it and see the finished design. I am good at waiting.

October Festival Information

2010-09-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

I forgot to include the web information for the street festival where I will be participating in Palo Alto. When I get my booth space information I will post here and on Facebook. So here is the site to go to for more information with directions and times. I hope you come to see me.

http://www.paloaltojcc.org/tolife

New Photos

2010-09-13T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well, it is good to be at this point in production as I prepare for the "To Life Festival" in October. It took a while to get a rhythm going to make 3 to 4 fused glass pieces a week. I have taken a few photos of the latest variety of vases. I am also making trays to hold menorahs and Sabbath candles for the buyers wanting Judaic items . There will be general designs featuring metallic finishes in many of my art pieces. I think the buying public will like the new look. I have not seen it at the local fairs, so, I think it will be an attention grabber. Another item in the works are photo, card and or note holders the first ones are so nice I started to use a few myself.

I have been working on my booth set up and will be using two tables with the cubes I used last year to display individual pieces. I decided I needed a good quality banner to hang in the booth and ordered one last week. Now all I need is a nice sunny day to show off the glass details and bring in the people.

Back to the studio I go after I post my photos for you.

Busy In The Studio

2010-08-08T11:35:00.000-07:00

What a nice change, I am having a busy creative summer. I applied to the "To Life Festival" being held on October 10, 2010 here in Palo Alto. I had to send along sample photos of my recent art work along with my application. Thrilled to be accepted. I participated in this street festival about 4 years ago.

I have continued with a variety of draped styles. And for this event I will add touches of Jewish content in my fused glass designs. I am, also, adding a line of textured accents with my plates, platters and bowls. I am looking at a fast approaching end date. Never knowing how many pieces will be needed for a one day show that attracts thousands of people is daunting. Better too much than too little. Whatever does not sell will be used as a base for the holiday shows latter in the year.

Fireworks Tonight

2010-07-04T23:15:00.000-07:00

What a colorful evening seeing fireworks. The splash and twinkle of bursting multicolored light against a blue black sky was breathtaking again. It always seems to get better and better every year. I have never made glass works for this holiday. I think I should plan to make something for myself at least. Maybe a serving plate or a centerpiece for candles for our holiday BBQ next year. It's funny, I am like the cobbler's family with shoes in need of repair, I don't often make any fused glass serving dishes or vases for myself. I should, because I could use some of the things I make to sell. I used to use some of the ones that I made to be sure they held up and would be easy to use and care for. Another project to add to my list after my summer projects for the fall and winter sale venues.

Wow!! New Templates and New Photos Today.

2010-06-23T23:29:00.000-07:00

Big surprise to find new templates. I am trying one out. It still has an orange background, a bit softer and swirly. The page set up is very different. Hope it is easy to follow. If you have the time and an opinion let me know which you like. They offer other designs I might try later if this one bombs.

I am firing more pieces for the shows this year. I am working on my "To Life Festival" application this week. The street fair takes place on October 10, 2010 on California Ave here in Palo Alto. It has been 4 years since I was a participant. It has a much bigger following I hope they like my glass and I get in. I will be selling a lot of draped and handkerchief style serving bowls and vases in a wide variety of sizes and colors. The new and unusual stainless steel molds are working out very well. I will incorporate Jewish designs in my pieces, but I need to have a number without, because this fair is not just for the Jewish population. The surrounding communities attend the festivities too.

I have a two new pieces to include in this post. One is a 4 inch wide 6 inch tall straight sided draped bowl. The curves are big enough to hold small flowers in water with a 3 inch candle inside. It makes a pretty table centerpiece. Or just use as a vase or bowl. The other photo is of a frit artglass hamsa. I will probably just make the next ones with glass sheets for strength. The frit works well, but in a fair with so many people handling the glass I think it will be too fragile. Also, I need to decide how I am going to display them if I do not add a hanger.

Members Only Art Show

2010-06-05T22:35:00.000-07:00

Today I submitted 3 photos of glass styles for the Sun Gallery's members only show. If accepted I set them up the end of this month and they are available for showing and sale June 30Th through July 24Th. The work includes an iridescent shallow bowl, a free form draped vase with accents and a dropped floral vase with a stand.

It is nice to see the variety of work I can do in my studio. Ten years ago I was so hesitant to do more than the very basic of glass techniques. Hey, the classes really paid off. I almost took a class right here in San Jose last month, but there were not enough people signed up. It was for 4 weeks and covered unusual techniques. One was using a flower pot to melt glass in the kiln. I need to follow up and see when the next class is especially since I already paid.

I am going to try and add the 3 pictures I submitted and some of the ones I sent with the application for the Dicken's Fair. I was going to be joining 2 other artist, but we were not accepted. Look for the photos in the slideshow area and I will have one near this post.

I am still here

2010-05-16T21:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been months since I added any new info or pictures or anything. Just a lot of nothing happening here I am sorry to say. That is not to say I have not worked in the studio. I have and I have pictures to show you. I have been concentrating on draped shapes and have made more voltives and they are very pretty. I photographed them with LED lights. You can actually see the shine on the glass, cool.

I have been gathering a variety of stainless steel forms to use as molds. Some of them are standard fusing molds others are regular stainless cooking bowls and containers. I need to fire them before using to burn off any impurities. Smelly!! And I have been using a new metal mold spray that works well if I spray enough layers. One time the glass started to stick to the mold and I ended up with a thin layer of metal sticking to the glass. Not too bad a disaster given that I was working with a brand new product.

I will be working more now that it is warmer. I have a some applications to prepare for shows this fall. More latter and sooner.

New Photos

2009-12-16T21:52:00.000-08:00

It was time to add new photos of the artglass I made for the Sun Gallery Boutique this year. While I was doing that I added captions and prices on the items available for sale. If you have a request for a special color on most of the styles I will take orders. Or I may already have what you want in stock.

I included views of the new set up using the cubes and a more neutral cloth covering. All in all I am satisfied with the new look. Separating the glass into categories is easier on the eye and also makes it easier to pick a piece up and hold it.

New Directions

2009-12-14T22:07:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed the process making the draped and handkerchief style art glass using stainless steel molds. So much so that I have started to look at different stainless steel shapes. I do have some of the standard cylinders made and sold specifically for glass fusing.

I know artist have used ordinary mixing bowls. I am not giving up mine. I will be hunting thrift shops for anything suitable. I do have some catering supplies left from a past career and may try some of these shapes out. Usually rounds are the favored mold. I will start there. Last week I found a large cocktail shaker at Bed Bath and Beyond that I need to condition before I can use as a mold. The kiln wash we use on the shelves is diluted and used to coat the metal molds. The problem is that spraying or brushing it on is very difficult to do. It tends to run and not cover well. About 3 or 4 years ago I read about a special high fire spray that was developed. It was used for mold release of industry castings. I never looked into ordering it, because I was not paying about $49 a 12 oz can. Very expensive for the type of work I do. Well this spray has made it to the glass suppliers I use. It is less expensive, and hopefully definitely worth it. I have ordered 2 cans and will be trying it out soon.

The holiday boutique season is almost over. Only about 8 selling days to go and then it is packing up and starting to design new pieces for next year's shows.

I'm at The Sun Gallery!

2009-11-30T13:06:00.000-08:00

The boutique is off to an early start. There are more artist setting up this week in time for the Artist Reception. A prior commitment Saturday prevents me from being there. It is a very good time to shop, meet the artist, and enjoy some entertainment and refreshments. They accept all forms of payment and there is plenty of parking.

I worked on Saturday and there was a steady flow of shoppers. Not everyone was at the malls. The gallery has added interns to their staffing. Nice that they are able to do that for these young people.

My last post promised new photos and I have them. I think that the art glass is showcased quite well in the cubes and the new cloth does not jump out at you. Toned down and a better back drop against the shine on the glass from the ceiling spots.

Sun Gallery Boutique

2009-11-28T01:16:00.000-08:00

I am off to Hayward this afternoon for my first shift as one of the participating artist at this years major fund raiser for the Gallery. Each artist helps staffing during the Holiday Boutique. Our time helps offset the cost and we also give 25% of our sales. The money raised helps fund the homeschooling art program, after school art classes, summer art camp, and the free children's art program held once a month on a Saturday. Check out their blog under my list of associations.

I set up my space last Sunday and it is better balanced than the set up on the November 14Th Gala Show. I am not using the gold cloth. I will take pictures and post them soon.

The holiday times are Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday from 10:30 to 4:30 and Friday has later hours from 12 noon to 6. The Sun Gallery is at 1015 E Street, free refreshments, easy parking, and call 510-581-4050 to inquire about becoming a member of this little gem in your own back yard.

Showing off new display

2009-11-16T13:04:00.000-08:00

This shows the new set up using snap together cubes with solid surfaces. They raise the merchandise and makes groupings easier. The table cloth is too distracting and will be changed for the next show at the Sun Gallery in Hayward. I am also going to use bed raisers to increase the table height. The combo should make the display more appealing.

Glass Photography Help

2009-11-15T22:45:00.000-08:00

This is the busy season all right. I am almost finished with kiln firings and only need to put finishing touches on my latest selection of votives and small draped and handkerchief bowls. These are handy and versatile additions in any home. Useful to hold anything from candles, soaps, candy, keys, odds and ends and when not in use they just look pretty.

A word of thanks for the kind words about my latest blog photos. I am getting much better taking photos of my fused glass. It has been trial and error. I knew that reflections and light in general make the process harder. I went online looking for tutorials and read articles in my glass magazines for tools, hints and helpful suggestions dealing with glass photography. It is recommended that a light box is used. Adding different backgrounds helps to show off and accentuate the beauty in the reflective art glass. If you need to take pictures of your art work that tends to reflect light use a photo cube. The sizes start at 12 inch squares and the largest I found that I might eventually need was 30 inches. I have a 22 inch kiln so my art size is limited. These cubes/tents using defused lighting are great for jewelry, glass, ceramics, porcelain, and metals, because they distribute the light evenly when using small spot lights surrounding the cube. This soft light helps eliminate glare and light spots.

Before I had a cube, I needed to submit a photo of my fused glass wine bottle trays and the pictures were a mess. I remembered reading that sometimes a photo copier can be used in a pinch. I tried it and it was passable. I experimented with jewelry cabochons and was surprised that the color and details showed up.

As you can see there are ways around common problems that arise in art work presentation. When I started learning the ins and outs of fused glass art I was very short sighted. It is not enough to create and design the art. Every artist faces the practical demands to present, display, and sell the finished product. The learning journey can be smooth or full of surprises. Mine have been the latter.

Here is another inspiring view from my vacation to Banff last month. It was because of settings like this that I was reminded of glass and light and how they play off each other like the sky on still water.

Pictures of new Draped Bowls

2009-11-10T13:04:00.000-08:00

I am ready to go to the Gala Show this Saturday and it is time to show photos of the bowls I have made. They can be used as candle holders, candy or nut dishes, even small vases. They look great clustered or scattered on a dining table or along a mantel. The clear holders reflect the internal light from the candles that produces a soft glow. Easy to create ambiance and not have a flickering candle dripping all over your table.

The multi colored glass has a nice play on light and dark. The larger opening bowls are perfect for candy. And in the bathroom they are pretty holding guest soaps. They make great stocking suffers for home or work gifts.

I will post pictures of the large draped vases later this week.

Gala Event Update

2009-11-08T16:26:00.000-08:00

Next Saturday is approaching very quickly. I am almost finished firing the draped bowls, just have 2 or 3 large ones to make. Pricing, inventory, and packing up is next. I have new draped bowls and candle or votive holders, Christmas ornaments and painted eastern designs.

I attended the MECDA planning meeting last week to work on the final logistics. I will be manning the raffle table next to my vending table. I have 2 friends helping me out during the day. They will be selling my glass and the raffle tickets. The last time I wrote in this blog I said that I would include information about the Gala and I would send discount coupons. Miss information on my part. The web site I included i my last post will bring the information to you. The coupon is included on page 2 of the flyer. Just print off as many as you need to save a few dollars.

Stop by my space between the admissions tables and the raffle table.

Draped Bowls

2009-10-28T21:48:00.001-07:00

My next show is just a few weeks away. I am selling in Palo Alto on November 14 at MECDA's Gala Show and Fundraiser in the Cubberley Auditorium. Detailed information about the Middle Eastern Dance event is found at //www.sfbamecda.org/ check out the list of dancers, prices and vendors. If you plan to come you can save a few dollars with a discount coupon. Check my blog in a few days to have me send you coupons by email.

The $8 ticket is good for the whole day and the activities include individual and group dancing during the day. And the 2 plus hour Gala Show with invited dancers tops off the day's event. There will be a market place to shop till you drop. So take a few breaks, eat, watch the dancing, and shop again. And a raffle of donated items from the vendors takes place that evening. Money from the raffle is donated to Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence.

Refreshments and hot foods and drink will be available all day too. The committee is very happy that Nancy's Catering will be back again. Her soups were a big hit last February.

Back to me......I have tried many ways to present my glass in a friendly come and touch way. I think I finally have a solution using a new display configuration using opaque plastic cubes. They stack and I can show off my individual glass pieces better and in a safer environment. And the glass art is higher at eye level. Easier for buyers to see and touch.

I am continuing to design and fire draped glass to form bowls. These bowls can be used for candy, candles, flowers, even guest soaps. One example how you can use then is to group them together with candles to cast a romantic glow or string them along a holiday table. If you don't want to use candles when entertaining LED lights can be used instead.

When I place round flat pieces of colored glass on the tall stainless steel forms the heat from the kiln slowly starts to soften the glass. As the temperature increases the glass heats up and starts to drape over the form ending in soft folds. When the glass cools these folds have created a unique bowl. Think snowflakes. No two are exactly the same. They are pretty little things just waiting for a spot in your home.

Next time I will write about the Christmas ornaments. I have added another feature this year that is a visual improvement to the style I designed last season. Aways adding new ideas and improvements.

Glass Cutting Tips

2009-10-15T17:29:00.000-07:00

I am sharing a portion of an email from Paragon that I received this week along with a few tips I learned along the way. They might help you avoid a few disasters.

GLASS CUTTING POINTERS
The table you are cutting on must be flat.
Pressing too hard with the glass cutter will produce imperfections along the freshly cut glass edge. Press just hard enough to make an even, steady noise and a consistent score line.
Here is a fast way to cut small pieces. The only tools you will need are a glass cutter and straight edge. First, make all your score lines on the glass. Then turn the glass over and tap out the pieces.
When making a long cut, do not lift the glass as you break it with breaking pliers. Lifting can put a slight bow in the glass, which causes it to separate erratically. Instead, leave the glass flat on the table, pull a little out from the edge, and break it with piers.
After scoring, use breaking pliers to separate a narrow piece of glass

Sounds easy? Well, I went through a lot of scrap glass to make a straight break every time. Mainly, because in the beginning I would forget steps or did not take the time to know the glass I was going to be cutting.

I. always clean your glass - on both sides.

2. cut on the correct side. There is a top and bottom. The smooth side is the correct one. You use your fingers to feel the difference.

3. study the glass for imperfections and possible curves and avoid cutting through them and when possible work around them.

4. textured glass is always cut on the bottom because it is now the smooth side.

5. on a long cut make many taps close together, do not skimp!

6. do not rush, take your time and do it right.

Practice on window glass or ask you glass supplier if they have a scrap bin and buy odds and ends saving yourself a lot of money while you are learning. And if you only buy compatible glass you will end up with lots of small pieces that you can use for decorating, or for small projects.

Need to be careful

2009-10-13T21:31:00.000-07:00

I reread some of my post and realized I was writing the wrong words about what I mean about my work. I have produced work in the studio. It just was not new, different, challenging or creative. I discovered a few years ago while attending an intensive workshop at Sierra Nevada College that as an artist I had two separate venues.

The first was to design and prepare a variety of fused art glass for a commercial market. These fairs, boutiques, and shows would bring in some needed revenue to help pay for itself and for the art projects that may not be that easy to sell. Commercially I need to produce enough volume to satisfy a variety of shoppers wants and likes as well as their needs, while creating work that represents what I do in my styles and design. An example of this is the line of Holiday Ornaments I made last year.

Then the really creative side of me is represented when I take risk, try new techniques and develop the skills needed to produce a finished one of a kind art piece. These ends up costing more, because of the of supplies needed, the time involved, and the presentation. There is a time and place for both styles of my work.

When I am in preparing for an event there are many choices to make and lots of attention to the details and there is a personal satisfaction to a job well done. The main ingredient missing is the freedom to push the envelope.

So, between sales, I let go and see where the glass takes me. I am back on this road again after my vacation. I have included a photo of the Bow River in Banff. I have not touched the color of the water in this photo. The river is fed from the melting of the glaciers that carries silt with it. This silt causes the variety of colors ranging from aquamarine to many shades of greens and blue. Every time I saw another shade, or the shine of the water I thought of the many sheets of Bullseye glass that looks like the water. I wanted to get home and reproduce what I saw. Be inspired!

Inspiration Explored

2009-10-11T23:23:00.000-07:00

I am thinking that I will include an inspiring photograph from my road trip to Canada to each new blog for a while. And as I finish my future glass pieces I will add them too.

We rarely know where our ideas come from as we toil away in our studios, yards, dining rooms, wherever we pick up our tools of choice. All that matters is the doing and hopefully the completion. But, as we are aware, sometimes life gets in the way and we move away from what we love to do. I wrote in my last post that I have been away from anything related to fused glass and tools and shows. It has been almost eight months.

We planed to visit Canada and Banff in particular 8 or 9 years ago. Instead we went to New Orleans. That switch is too long a story to get into at this time. Let's just say this trip was long over due. And today very much appreciated. The benefits extended far beyond the rest and relaxation we needed. The escape was the first sensation that hit me. Then as we traveled along the landscape became the focus. Every mile held more surprises and unexpected beauty. I have never been a camera junky, but I wanted to capture every vista, mountain, sky and river I saw. I took 100's of photos expecting to only find a fraction worth keeping. I was wrong. My shoot and point took better photos than I expected, the downloads at the end of the day captured that day beautifully and they were as good as Eric's photos taken on a digital single reflex. We both have more photo memories than expected.

Every day I found myself comparing the colors and textures I saw in nature to the types of glass I use and many that I have not used. I started to see myself gathering glass and recreating the images of this trip. I don't know what my end results will be and I don't care. I just want to explore with what I have and use my memories and photographs as my guide. Never having worked this way in itself is another inspiration.

As you follow my blog, if you are an artist I hope that perhaps some of my post and photographs can inspire and or motivate you too. Remember an artist is more than one who uses art materials. Every time you plan your garden and set out your plants, or decide it is time to redo the living room with paint and new cushions, you are using your creativity and artistic skills.

More on exploring our inner artist later.

Inspiration finally arrives

2009-10-05T22:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, inspiration finally arrives!

I have been in such a slump I thought it was never going to end.

We just finished a lovely road trip to Canada with a week stay in Banff. I heard it was a beautiful place and we have been to many beautiful state and national parks in the United States, but the sheer variety of landscapes we experiences was overwhelming. Many of the places we visited were indeed assume. You could go to one place for hours and see the lake, or mountain, or glacier and never view it the same way twice. The clouds, sun, shadows, even the wind changes the view. The colors of the lakes and rivers range from blues to greens, to aquamarine. Often these colors appeared in the same body of water in various degrees. These colors are due to the run of glaciers milk. The ground up rock and soil mixes with the glacier's melted waters.

The shifts in the landscape is are so beautiful that words fail to describe what I saw. Because I was sure I could not remember all the colors, I took massive amounts of photos. I do not usually do this, but I wanted to capture the scenes that nature provided so freely.

I am going to develop a series of work using the colors I found so inspiring. I will try a reproduce some of the water colors in my pieces. I don't know if they will be useful or decorative art pieces or wearable art. The first thing I need to do is find the right pieces of glass and glass paints. I may, also, use special photo paper that I can copy some of the images I have and fuse it between glass.

This trip was as good as taking a fuse glass class for inspiration and for recharging a part of me that has been neglected for way too long.

Clocks

2009-06-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

Clocks, everyone has them. Big and noisy, small and pretty, practical and elegant. So why am I talking about clocks? Well, I was asked to make a fused glass clock for a teenager. They wanted a gift that was unusual and useful yet something a guy could use in his room and not be just another teenage thing. I asked about his likes and found out he was into sports and the colors he favored were blue and black. Also, he likes geometric patterns. That covered a lot of sporting team colors so I used a white for the base color and designed three clocks.

I set off to make abstract face plates for his timeless gift. Now the glass part was easy. Drilling a hole was not. So I decided to make my design leaving an opening in the center. I would learn to perfect my glass drilling later when it was warmer. Drilling glass is messy and very wet. Not something I wanted to do outside this spring. Anyway, the fusing came together rather well.

On to the clock assembly. That was the last step. Have you ever used a clock movement kit? It is not as easy as it looks. Everything is small and wants to slip away from the glass. And it took many tries to discover how tight was just right so that the hands moved without slipping.

Finally the first one is done and working. Had to wait to see if it kept accurate time. On to the other two. I really expected the next assemblies to be easier now that I knew what to do. Not! The size of the holes were slightly different and the thickness of the glass was different. A little glass filing and a washer solved the new problems.

Three new fused glass clocks. Now, how to pack them without bending the hands during transportation. Figured that out and finished with bubble wrap and boxed them up.

I hand delivered then and the black and red design was chosen. I have heard that he liked the clock. Boys are so hard to buy for and I was happy I had a satisfied customer.

By the way, I delivered these clocks to Ashland Oregon. Don't expect me to provide this type of service all the time, but if I also get a great trip to Oregon I just might.

No Idle Hands This March

2009-03-15T19:12:00.000-07:00

My hands are leisure blue. What a misnomer. I should complain to the paint designers. No, the paint namers. I am almost done with the painting and I should stop grumbling because it looks great so far. The paint is easy, cleans well and does not stink like paints of old. As I have been working I have been visualizing where the pottery is going. I already tried out 6 of Eric's fabulous blue vases and pots and they look good on the shelves. He has not thrown pots in a long time and I am happy we did not give away all of these special blue pottery pieces. This shade of blue turned out to be an accidental outcome when they were fired in a communal kiln. Some of my fused glass has been assigned space too. There will be other artist glass up too. There will still be lots of space for our books in the larger area. The smaller section behind the desk will hold all the paper, supplies and stuff in holders and baskets. The end result should be a less cluttered room. The current dreaded C word. Clutter!!!

I am going to have some help soon adding photos here of my more recent glass creations and maybe a few of the bookcase. The pictures will be before the glass doors and after. The last of the finishing molding and fittings and hardware will not happen until the end of May.

More work to do so I can start to use the bookcases next week.

Glass Touch

2009-02-14T15:11:00.000-08:00

The built in bookcases are coming along smoothly. Yesterday we make decisions about the placement and type of molding and finishing on the edges. Exploring our options at Home Depot was fun. The big surprise was the selection of wood we looked at. The wood was the best I have seen there. Straight in good shape, clean, and very few knots. The real construction began today.

While designing the specific needs of this project I decided to make my own glass knobs on the double doors being made. In 2 of the picture frame style door sets I am going to put art glass inserts.. And on the top of one surface area I am going to put down a glass top.

I do not want a full sheet of glass, because it is easier to break and I know that using smaller pieces and setting them in place like ceramic tiles will be stronger and cheaper. Creating a mosaic look to complement the doors is the way to go. I checked out Delphi's weekly email offerings and they are now supplying bags of colored glass tiles 1/2" and 5/8" sizes. This will make my project so much easier. Now all I have to do is decide on the blue/gray color I want, buy my paints and go to work.

Being a glass artist who believes that glass art can and should be artistic and functional at the same time means that I need to see my product in my home too. Not just in my studio. And not just in my customers homes.

Now what other rooms need my glass touch? Bathroom? Kitchen? We'll see.

Friday the 13Th

2009-02-13T01:15:00.000-08:00

Friday the 13Th was never a bad day for me. In fact 13 is a good number. You get 13 with a bakers dozen. I was once in a class of 13. I signed the final papers on a house on February 13Th a number of years ago. And today my built in book cases will be started and finished by Sunday.

I know, what does this have to do with my glass you ask? Well, I am going to use some of the book cases in use now in my studio. This week has been very fruitful. I have been looking at necklace easels and jewelry display pieces and I had decided where I was going to buy them, when "bob and bob" sent out an email announcement that after 26 years they were closing their gift/book store. I needed to see the owners and while there I arranged to buy their jewelry display materials. The easel colors are light blue and rose. My fused glass will show up very well on these soft colors. I also, now, have some new clear plastic holders for earrings and some soft black half rounds for bracelets. The timing was great for me. I am glad I took so long deciding what and where to buy the displays I needed. And I love having a part of "bob and bob" with me, because I worked in the store from 1985 to 1995 and always thought that at some time I would work there sometime in the future. It is a loss to the Jewish community that we will not have Ellen and Shirley as our heart beat, but I know their spirit and caring will live in our hearts and memory.

Strange things happen

2009-01-28T23:50:00.000-08:00

Just when life seem to be quieting down and the weather is warming up all factors perfect for studio activity, I can't cut glass for a while. Who knew that a new eyeglass prescription would distort my perception. Mine did and it is throwing depth and angles off. I need to ease into wearing them full time. It may take up to two weeks. Good news is that I can read great and I have new frames, so all is not bad.

I am not going to waste this time though. I mentioned in a previous post that our family room was being redone. I did not expect to start till after President's weekend. I will be packing up my family room this weekend and getting it ready to repaint after 15 years and add new bookcases. I am having cabinet door frames made and I will be adding art glass inserts. I will have them cut to size for me. After I pick out the wall color I can decide on the glass colors. I have a nice lemony/straw yellow now and the colors for 2009 are yellows and purples. So I will look at the new yellows and maybe paint the bookcases a blue/gray that can pick up the other colors in the room. I'm not designing in my studio, but my family room is a perfect challenge right now. Now, if I got paid for my family room make over that would be perfect.

Various Musings

2009-01-25T22:34:00.000-08:00

Various musings just about covers the thoughts that have been mixing in my head this week. I was disappointed that I did not sell anything on the 17Th. I enjoyed the end results of the raffle I chaired that day. I enjoyed having my friend Lonnie help me with the raffle. We made the most money ever for "Next Door" and people were happy with the new raffle style. My friend Nancy had a successful day selling her foods to all the vendors, dancers, and guest. I hope she caters at the MEDCA events again. And the dancing was very good and this year they had the most attendance ever. Over 350 tickets sold!! Palo Alto is the right place to hold their winter event.

Then the week continued with our monthly art critique meeting. I brought 7 of the framed fused hand painted hamsas and henna designs. I got really good feed back on the styles and a few suggestions for improvements about presentation and how to make them more of an art piece rather than just small individual framed pieces.

The next day I stopped over at "bob and bob" in Los Altos. It was upsetting and so sad. Even though I never worked at the new store I felt a great sense of loss at the store's impending closing. They have been in business for 26 years and I had the wonderful opportunity to work for Ellen and Shirley for 10 years at the Forest Avenue location in Palo Alto. I went back on Sunday and bought a lot of necklace easels, jewelry display trays and various holders that I can use with my fused glass Dichroic jewelry.

I am starting a new project. Adding built in bookcases in out family/living room. They will have the regular shelves and doors, but I am going to have custom art glass inserted in a few of the door frames. After the frames are made and attached I will add the glass in a color that will compliment the new paint and remodeled room. It will update our home and give us added display and storage space. I need to have space to show off my glass along with the pottery and glass we have collected over the years. I hope to have everything done by the end of February. The hard part is packing everything up and deciding what to keep and where to place them on the finished shelves.

New Designs Are Ready

2009-01-14T22:22:00.000-08:00

My new designs are ready for the Gala Showcase on Saturday. I really like the hand painted designs I made for the variety of dancers attending. I think there are styles I am bringing that represents many of the cultures that the dancing community people will recognize. The vendors I have visited at past events while heavy in costumes and accessories, also, have some art from countries like Egypt and India. So, I think my hand painted glass will fit in well as a speciality item. Because, what I am selling is different from the normal vending at this dance event, I am going to be a a square peg in a round hole. It will be great if this takes off. Then I can travel to other dance shows in the Bay Area or maybe other businesses would like to carry my work.

I am doing double duty on Saturday. I am selling and I am in charge of the Raffle. The tables are together or I would not be able to do this again this year. All the vendors make a donation and all proceeds go to Next Door in San Jose. A non profit organization providing solutions to domestic violence.

Remember. it is not too late for me to send you coupons for reduced admission by email.

Is it 2009 Already ???

2009-01-12T00:57:00.000-08:00

The holiday shows, party's, and celebrations were great. Spent time with friends and family. Kicked back and recharged. Should have done lots of work type stuff, and I didn't. Wish I did at least work on my next show which is coming up on January 17.

I am a vendor at the "2009 Gala Showcase" presented by SF/BA MEDCA. It is the Peninsula's Only Bellydance Festival. If you are interested visit their site listed on the bottom left on this page.

I am presenting a variety of glass paintings with designs from India, Egypt, Persia, and Israel. This style of art is in the upper left hand corner of my blog. Look for the framed hand. It is a Hamsa. Many cultures have a variation of the hand and it is used to protect against evil. I guess I'm doing my part to protect the world.

So, instead of writing in my blog and keeping up to date I have been steadily working in my cold studio with a space heater. Kilns do not give off much heat during a firing. My selection is growing every day. It will be a spirited hot event next Saturday at the Cubberley Auditorium and I hope you can stop by. There is shopping, eating, dancing and more dancing.

My daughter will be dancing in the afternoon too. Look for her by her dance name, Zemira. If you want to come I can save you some money too. If you get in touch with me I will send you a coupon for an all day admission for the grand sum of only $7. The coupon can be copied, because everyone needs their own. See you there!

Great " Finds" at the Gem Show

2008-12-01T21:19:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a great day I had at the San Mateo Gem and Jewelry Show! It has been about 2 years since I attended. I went the day after Thanksgiving, because I needed more sterling silver necklaces and figured most people would be at the department stores. I was right, it was busy but not the mad house it can be.

Before I even made it to the wholesale section I found 2 booths I wanted to explore in depth. I had another goal in mind. Find sterling silver ring blanks and any other flat designed jewelry that I could use with my dichroic glass cabochons. I have not been satisfied with the selection offered by my current suppliers. When I mentioned what I was looking for, the sellers showed me more designs to choose from than I ever expected. There was nothing like this a few years back.

I now have rings sized 6 to 8 1/2 in different designs, solid sterling silver bracelets, many pendants, earrings, and a nice variety of findings to add interest with my fused glass jewels.

I kept finding what I needed in so many booths. I had a wealth of treasures to take back to the studio. What a day, full of surprises both the shopping kind and the people kind. I ran into a designer I know while we were searching for findings. Laura makes lovely beaded jewelry. And as I was working my way out of the show I met Shannon as she was leaving. Not only was she leaving the show, but she is leaving the area and moving to Orange County for a new job in a few weeks. I will miss our all too infrequent visits. After five hours at the show I was on my way home with all my new shiny silver.

This week I start working on new jewelry designs and a new line of hand painted Hamsa. More information about this new line later.

Easier viewing of my Ornaments

2008-11-24T21:53:00.000-08:00

It has come to me attention that my information where to see my Ornaments was not clear or as easy as I thought. Sorry, I am still learning my way around.
So here is the direct link http://www.thesungallery.blogspot.com/

Sun Gallery Show Update

2008-11-20T21:38:00.000-08:00

Today was the first day I volunteered at the holiday show. There are even more artist participating than I saw when I set up a few weeks ago. The range and variety of work presented is fantastic. You can buy a hand crafted wood bottle stopper for $20 or one of my glass ornaments for $15 or a lovely stained glass table for $199. And if you have a sweet tooth there is a table with delicious chocolates.

You can see a sample of my ornaments on the Sun Gallery blog. Christine added it today. I was so surprised and pleased. She took a very nice photo with her cell phone.

There are many styles of decorative Christmas ornaments hand made lace covered clear globes, painted gourds, ribbon and fabric holiday tree decorations and my painted fused glass ornaments.

Come and browse, have a cookie while you decide what you can't pass up. All of these treasures are waiting for you to take home or to give this holiday season.

Just For Fun

2008-11-02T00:31:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we are so rushed and or busy with work, we just in need of a little diversion. We all get emails from friends with beautiful landscape nature photos that inspire us, warm words to encourage , and jokes to tickle our funny bone. All of these stop time for a few minutes giving us a break in our routines.

Today I am including in my blog one of the diversions sent to me. It has great pictures and it is interactive. Choose the pictures as asked and in the end you will know a bit more about yourself. Or you may be surprised to recognise that it really is "You ".

Take a few minutes and go to http://dna.imagini.net/friends

my dna is found at http://youniverse.com/us/art-glass

New Christmas Ornaments

2008-10-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

For the Sun Gallery Holiday event I am starting a new fused glass Christmas series. I am making Christmas tree decorations. They are 4" rounds in a variety of colors. So far I have 3 styles. The first ones are called "Crazy Wavies" and "All Cracked Up". Then I have designed a third style incorporating metallic colors which is still unnamed. The rounds are either flat or slightly curved and all come ready to hang. One or two of these hand painted decorations will look terrific on your Christmas tree this year.

If you have an off beat suggestion for a name for my metallic series let me know. If I use the name I will send you one of the tree ornaments in your choice of metallic, silver, gold, or bronze.

The studio is a bit cold this morning. Hard to believe a room with a kiln can get cold, but I found out a good kiln does not lose much heat. So my little space heater does the job as needed.

In a few more minutes my nimble fingers can work in warm comfort as I add embellishments and hangers to my new creations.

I will include some photos soon.

Showcase Cancelled

2008-10-27T10:20:00.000-07:00

I got some disappointing news last week. The Los Altos Showcase was cancelled due to a lack of vendors. As with any event there are optimum numbers you need and they did not have enough artist sign up.

New uses for Catering Supplies

2008-10-10T23:02:00.000-07:00

Today, I was organizing and pricing my catering supplies for a garage sale. I have wanted to make more space for my fusing supplies in the garage cabinets. No big surprises, been planning to do this for months. As I am prodding along I came across some school style lunch trays, orange, enough said. I got a bright idea. I can use them in the studio to stack glass projects awaiting firings or the finishing touches. Then I started on the steam tray pan inserts. Good quality stainless steel. Maybe I can get 10 bucks. Wow, what a great mold for a large bowl. A stainless steel mold runs in the $80 plus range. So, today, I saved myself a bunch of bucks. Bad news is they are still in my place, but at least they will be used instead of collecting dust in the garage. Later, I came across 3 new boxes of a butter sprayer. Worked great for large cooking jobs. I decide to see if they would work to spray on kiln wash. It even has a brush attachment. Off to the studio, pour in kiln wash, spray on a shelf or my molds. It worked! Now I have a nifty unorthodox spray bottle. Who would figure that my last career would transfer to my new one.

Los Altos Artist Showcase 2008

2008-09-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

Wow, I am so happy to be a part of this showcase of area artist. I have attended and bought gifts here over the years and never did I think I could participate. I always thought it was only for artist living in Los Altos. I was wrong. I also found out I can apply to become a member. I am going to do just that.

The Los Altos Artist Showcase runs for three days on November 14, 15, and 16, 2008 at the Los Altos Community Center. I am busy firing up many more gorgeous fused glass serving platters in addition to my line of Dichroic jewelry for your holiday gift giving. Remember to treat yourself when shopping for friends and family whether it is for Hanukkah or Christmas.

Returing to Sun Gallery's Holiday Boutique

2008-09-30T01:17:00.000-07:00

Sun Gallery in Hayward, CA is having their fund raising Holiday Show. The show this year runs from November 5 to December 13. Please check their website for the hours of operation .

Last year there were ceramic pieces of all sizes and styles, textiles and wall pieces, two talented photographers, beaded and glass jewelry, fused glass of all colors, and many styles of paintings. There were a variety of wonderful gift items with a full range of prices to fit any budget. Come see this years offerings when you are in the area and or want to support their children's art program come on by.

Over the years they have added many more children's art classes, for the home schooled, regular after school programs, and summer art camp. Money raised during the Holiday Show helps fund these art activities. My connection to this gallery dates back to when we lived in Hayward 32 years ago. My daughters and I went to see many exhibits and often made a happy stop in their gift shop. Sara still has some jewelry she bought with her own money.

Glass Exhibit of Kaus Moje

2008-09-27T11:41:00.000-07:00

Here I am in the heart of the Oregon Glass World, Portland. Sunday 8/31/08 I visited the Portland Art Museum especially to see the fantastic exhibit of kiln formed and wheel-carved glass by artist Klaus Moje. He started with blown glass more than 50 years ago and evolved and pushed the glass boundaries over the last 30 years. This 68 piece retrospective of the work of this world renowned artist from Australia illustrated his latest style of fused glass. His current show focus is on pattern design, so precise and vivid many looked like a mass of colorful bar codes. His work reminds me of the abstract designs by the renown Israeli artist Agam. Using the Bullseye Glass Factory in Portland, Kraus Moje created a massive four panel work "The Portland Panels" which were debuted from May 31 to September 7, 2008.

In fact, they are the reason I knew about this exhibit. Here is the description that Bullseye sent out. I knew I had to find a time to go to Portland to see his work.

"NEW Klaus Moje 2-Book Bundle With the recent publication of Klaus Moje by Portland Art Museum, there now exist two volumes devoted exclusively to the life and career of this innovative artist, teacher, and father of the contemporary kiln-glass movement. Bullseye is proud to offer both books, bundled together in an attractive slipcase, at a special bargain price. Klaus Moje documents the thirty-year Moje retrospective that was mounted by and is currently on exhibition at Portland Art Museum. The 68 pieces in the retrospective trace the progression of the master's work and his unparalleled contributions to expression and technique. The book features essays by Dan Klein and Bruce Guenther and a technical perspective on the Portland Panels by Ted Sawyer."

Of course, I bought one of the books at the museum. I needed to save some money for shopping at Bullseye. I went on Tuesday to see what's new and exciting that I could not live without. Yea, I found a few exciting packages of cut up patterned glass rods to use as accents in my work. On the plus side I did buy some basic supplies I really did need.

Surpising Art Glass Finds

2008-09-26T16:18:00.001-07:00

I traveled to Oregon with my daughter Sara at the end of August. One of our stops was at the Newport Aquarium. The Oddwater was their current exhibit. We went to see fish and this time they took back seat to the beautiful blown glass. Yes glass!! The fish were exhibited in tanks that also displayed beautiful glass sea vegetation. There was coral, seaweed, barnacles, shells and tubes for fish to swim through. I even saw real swimming seahorses. The glass pieces still took center stage. The blown glass was provided by a local studio, "The Edge Art Gallery" you can see their work on the website.

Before we left I went to the gift shop and found that their fused glass was too expensive for me. One 5" glass coaster was more than $20. I sell a set for $25. Maybe I need to raise my prices. This stop turned into a terrific surprise.

While in Portland I planned to stroll through "Art in The Pearl" over Labor Day weekend. We had a beautiful day for the event. Lots of interesting and different art. The styles presented are very different from what I see down here. It 's more organic, quirkier, and less commercial. I found some interesting techniques that I would like to try. Without directions I will wing it and see what happens. Maybe I will have something for my holiday shows in November and December. My studio awaits.

Fine Arts at the Fair Update

2008-09-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

Had a good summer. The high point was the San Mateo Fine Arts exhibit. I did not win anything and there were very few other fused glass pieces. I found out that to get a separate category for glass compitition at least 15 people need to submit. So now all the glass, wood, and mixed media are competing against each other. I will take part again next year.

I sold the "Icy Threads" after the fair. The buyer saw it at my Open Studio in May while I was working on it and wanted to buy it. That was very nice.

Lake Tahoe

2008-07-29T00:26:00.001-07:00

The multi colors of North Lake Tahoe were my inspiration. This beautiful round art piece is designed with hand made marble styled bars. These bars are sliced and arranged with the original solid colors used to make the bars.
This one is NFS, but I will take orders in your choice of colors for $225.00

Oregon Irises

2008-07-29T00:26:00.000-07:00

This 10" painting is composed with fine glass powder, small grains of frit, and glass liquid. This technique produces texture and highlights after 3 kiln firings.
Including a square black metal stand, it is available for $155.00 .

Whatever

2008-07-27T23:27:00.003-07:00

This multi-layered 10 inch square sculptor piece can be set in the black metal frame in any direction. Thereby creating 4 different looks to reflect your mood. It is available for $180

Icy Threads

2008-07-27T23:27:00.002-07:00

This fused piece traps copper threads between 2 layers of crystal clear glass and then formed in a hand made mold. - Sold
Yes, this one sold, but, if you are interested in this style I can design a new art piece with your specifications.

Photos and Fair website are here

2008-07-27T23:27:00.001-07:00

I added the San Mateo Fair website for you. Look in the links section. The 4 pieces submitted in the Fine Arts competition with description and prices are shown here for your enjoyment and because I am so happy to have a record of this accomplishment.

Catch Up Time

2008-07-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

WOW !
A lot has happened while I was away from my blog. First of all I forgot how to get back on to write about my musings. I should not have said that, but that is better than being too lazy to bother.

Recap: I had good feed back on my work at the May Silicon Valley Open Studio. Then I started this blog and set up an Etsy account. During that time I waited the delivery of my small table top Paragon Glass Kiln. Got it!! Have not used it yet, because the shelf used for firing my glass was not shipped. Waiting for it now.

Did not waste time while waiting. Applied to the San Mateo County Fair's Fine Arts Division to exhibit 4 new art pieces. I was accepted. It will be the first time my work will be officially judged and perhaps be recognized with some sort of award. I have had my glass judged for participation in street festivals to see the quality and type of work I do.

Last Friday the 25th I stood in line and dropped off my works. Everyone around me had framed paintings and photographs. The art work is sent for judging and then it is set up by fair staffers. By the time the fair opens on August 8th all will be displayed with any awards attached. It will be exciting to go and find my art pieces. I do not know how or where in the Fine Arts Building they will be. The fair is open until the 16th.

I will post pictures sent to the fair today if I figure it out. And do it correctly.
There are 2 designs for sale and if they are not purchased at the fair they will be for sale directly from me.

I will try and add the photographs of the submitted art pieces and a link to the fair.

YEA !! I added my pictures today.

2008-05-18T01:56:00.000-07:00

My daughter came by to help with the last weekend of 2008 Silicon Valley Open Studio. Check out my link to their site and view my write up and more photos of my Fused Glass. Look for me by name, Joanna Westerfeld, or by my site, number 53. My information stays on their website for about 10 months. I can change my info and photos during that time.

It was hot and slow today. Therefore I did not really need her help. But she needed her dad's. They went out to the garden and he showed her how to back up information and files on her computer. Then after the show ended at 5 we checked out this space and I learned how to add picture and general hints to make this a better blog.

I will be back tomerrow with the final musings about Open Studio.

Silicon Valley Open Studio

2008-05-11T23:16:00.000-07:00

Today, May 11, was the end of weekend 2 for Open Studio. The traffic this weekend was slow but steady. So far of the three artist at my site one had very good sales, another sold 2 or 3 small painting, a I had sold a little bit of everything. A plate, a picture frame, some jewelery, a few wine bottle trays. The big plus was the interest in individual classes and arranging privite time with me for some small projects. Next weekend is the last one for me. I expect the sales to be mixed again, so I am glad I presented my full range of styles.

I still have not figured out how to add pictures or personalize my blog. Soon my daughter will lend a hand and guide me through this process. I realy am looking forward to writing about my glass fusing and adding photos of the finished art pieces.

I think this blog will be an easy way for my friends to see what I am doing. Beyond that I will let this experience evolve on it's own and I will enjoy myself along the way.