I began creating stained glass pieces
when my daughter was only a few years old (maybe 9-10 years ago). A
friend’s wife called and asked if I wanted to take a stained glass
class with her at the Rosewood Arts Centre in Kettering. We took a
foil stained glass class one day a week for a few weeks. I really
enjoyed the process of construction and the different colors of glass
and creative aspect of pattern design.
Since I work full time, stained glass
has allowed me to find a creative break from work and escape realty.
I am inspired through everyday objects, shapes and colors. Often I
find shapes or patterns that I can modify into a stained glass
pattern; sometimes I can spend hours trying to decide what colors I
should use because of the endless options of color choices.
Originally I started making stained
glass pieces for myself and family to enjoy. Eventually friends
started seeing what I was doing and asked if I could make them
something. I never really envisioned myself selling or having the
option to sell in a store.
A few years ago, in a magazine, I saw a
creative idea of using stained glass to make small panels that hold
air plants (Tillandsia). Since air
plants require no dirt to grow, they can sit in a wire basket
attached to the panels and only need a spray of water every few weeks
(depending on how much sun the plants gets). In addition to the
panels, my husband and I cut glass bottles and then take the neck of
the bottle and turn it upside down to make hanging vases which can
hold air plants. Solder, wire and beads can be added to customize
each piece. I primarily made these panels and vases for a show that
I exhibited in during October so that people could purchase them for
the Holidays. Once these plants are gone, I will go back to making
designs that do not have living plants.
Where I see my stained glass going in
the future – I am just happy to see and hear about people who have
my work or are getting a piece for the first time, and the joy it may
bring them, or a friend they are giving it to. If people continue to
tell me the happiness it brings them or someone they love, then that
is priceless. I will continue to make what I love to do and know it
is appreciated.
I find myself being attracted to
anything made out of glass with color. I love Chihuly. His play on
color and design is fabulous. Glass blowers, glass bead makers and
artists that fuse glass fascinate me. I’d love to try different
types of techniques using glass. I guess I just need to find the
time.
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