January 2022: New Year, New Adventures with Glass

With the start of the year 2022 I find myself contemplating where my glass adventures might take me in the coming months. In the past year of continued isolation, I’ve enjoyed the benefits of social media, Facebook friends, Zoom classes, symposiums and even the 4-day gathering hosted by the International Society of Glass Beadmakers in June. I’ve met people I otherwise might not have met, and have shared and been inspired by many beautiful pieces created by artists from around the world. The pieces in the picture above shows a smattering of different techniques I was drawn to work with in the past year- some inspired from on-line classes, some from experimentation in the studio. These techniques include everything from implosions to murrini, wigwags to painting with gold luster and blowing strands of hollow beads with enamel… weeks and weeks of challenges and satisfying enjoyment. 

Since the advent of my involvement with glass, one of my favorite places to visit is the Corning Museum of Glass, both as a visitor and as a student. Later this month I hope to participate in a class with the well known artist Jeri Warhaftig. She will be offering us a class on Pate de Verre, a technique that involves kiln casting and sandblasting. Something new and exciting that I may eventually incorporate into my own work!

A good tiding for the New Year- the United Nations has designated 2022 as the International Year of Glass. Definitely worth celebrating!