Artist's Statement

s long as I remember, I've been deeply fascinated by the transformative properties of glass, from a solid state to fluid form and back again. The process of transforming glass with fire in order to manifest a useful and creative vision is exhilarating and meditative. Each piece is infused with purpose and passion for this ancient craft and my genuine desire to share its beauty with others.

My artistic journey is marked by a diverse range of creations, from functional to non-functional, simple to complex, and realistic to abstract. This versatility is a testament to my curiosity and willingness to explore new ideas and techniques, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in flameworking. Years behind a torch is an artistic journey that emerged from more pragmatic and humble beginnings.

Much of my family was drawn to the glass business. My father and uncles owned a glass company that specialized in window glass, mirrors, and autoglass. I was ever curious at how all this glass in myriad shapes and sizes was made, but even the best explanations were not satisfactory.

One fateful day, I was introduced to a glassblower who showed me how a torch could turn rods & tubes of glass into functional art and my life has never been the same. I learned all I could and took inspiration from intricate patterns of nature to the innovative works of my fellow glass artists. I drew upon this tapestry of influences to infuse my pieces with depth, meaning, and a sense of connection and playfulness with the world around us.

With over 24 years of experience in flameworking, I have honed my craft and developed a deep understanding of the interplay of glass and fire. Teaching thousands of students to safely work with fire and molten glass has been a privilege and a joy, allowing me to pass on my knowledge, and continuously evolve as an artist.

Whether a marble, ornament, earring, pendant, cup, pipe, jar, figurine, or paperweight, the essence of glass as a medium of transformation and expression truly comes to life, imbued with the energy that shapes worlds. The goal is to create art that is not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful, resonating profoundly with people.

Through my art, I aim to inspire others to appreciate the beauty and versatility of glass and to recognize its potential as a medium for self-expression and connection with the divine. It is my hope that my work will continue to captivate and inspire others for years to come and leave a lasting legacy in the world of handmade glass art.