Washington Glass School

Melissa Stern KickStarter "Talking Cure"

2012-01-25T14:51:00.008-05:00

Melissa Stern - the mixed media artist that had a residency at the Washington Glass School this past summer has a new project/exhibition that she is seeking support.

The proposed exhibition integrates mixed material sculpture, contemporary literature, and audio technology - titled the "Talking Cure," . The exhibition is scheduled to open in Seattle in March and in New York City in 2013.

The project title, "The Talking Cure," takes its name from Sigmund Freud’s original description of psychoanalysis. The exhibition will consist of ten of Melissa's sculptures each accompanied by an interactive audio track created by a literary collaborator.

Says Melissa: "My sculptures will be fabricated figures combining mixed materials, found objects, deeply drawn surfaces, and an abundance of personality. Seeing and saying, thinking and talking, will cure all your problems!

I have asked ten writers- poets, novelists, screenwriters, and playwrights- to each chose a sculpture to which they relate most intimately. Each is writing his or her imagined monologue of the goings on in the sculpture's mind. These will then be transformed into audio recordings. A QR tag will accompany each sculpture. When the viewer points a Smartphone, Blackberry or I-Phone reading device at the QR tag it will trigger audio to hear the inner voice of the sculpture.

I have long been fascinated by what goes on in people’s minds when they look at art. What stories do they tell themselves? What emotions and memories are triggered? My work has always been psychological in nature. In the past I have made shows that deal explicitly with memory, childhood and family. By definition these subjects have a strong psychological bent. I am as interested in what others think the pieces are “saying” as in what has motivated me to make them.

In this project we will have a chance to hear what others think goes on in the minds of my sculptural 'people.'"

Click HERE to jump to Melissa's Kickstarter project description.

Kickstarter is an online threshold pledge system for funding creative projects.

Washington Sculptors Group Lecture "The Changing Contemporary Art World"

2012-01-24T09:46:00.004-05:00

Washington Sculptors Group
Talk with Tim Tate: Artist’s Covenants and Social Media
on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Limited to 35 participants, R.S.V.P. to programs@washingtonsculptors.org

The Washington Sculptors Group presents an informal interactive seminar/discussion with participants interested in new ways to market their art in the 21st century. Tim Tate, a sculptor extraordinaire and Fulbright Scholar, will share a wealth of his experience in building one’s name, market and career within the contemporary art world. Filled with real life examples and possibilities, this workshop may change the way participants see themselves as artists.

Click HERE to jump to East City Art blog for more info

Click here for directions:
http://g.co/maps/zakbg

The Washington Glass School is located at 3700 Otis Street, Mount Rainier, MD 20712. Visit online at http://washingtonglassschool.com/school/

Visit The Washington Sculptors Group online at www.washingtonsculptors.org or call (202) 686-8696

Jack Johnson & Glass

2012-01-24T09:42:00.003-05:00

Jack Johnson's got the whole (glass) world, in his hands.

This past summer we had a blog posting about National Geographic's newly created "Arts Ambassador for the Environment Award" - given to entertainers that are leaders in environmental and cultural conservation. The award was designed and made by the Washington Glass Studio from recycled glass. The winner for the inaugural award was singer Jack Johnson. We just received a photo of Jack holding his award.

The creation of the National Geographic Society award was covered in the first of the series called "The Process". Click HERE to jump to the posting of how the recycled glass award was made using the "lost wax" process.

Master Class in Painting On Glass

2012-01-23T13:06:00.008-05:00

Coming soon is the Master Painting on Glass class - make sure you don't miss the chance to learn from glass guru Bert Weiss!

Master Class: Painting On Glass with Bert Weiss

Instructor: Bert Weiss
Dates: President's Day Weekend - February 18, 19 & 20th, 2012
Time: 10 am - 4pm each day
Tuition: $400

Led by master artist Bert Weiss, this three-day glass painting technique class features multiple projects designed to give the student a better understanding of lass painting and its enormous potential in fused glass. Bert's techniques allow you to use vibrant colors without worrying about glass compatibility. The course will show you how to mix metallic oxide colorants with glass and create oil paint like-washes. This course is suitable for all levels of experience. Students do not need to bring anything, all the tools and materials are provided for the course - just wear suitable old clothes and sturdy shoes... oh, and bring a lunch! Bert Weiss studied traditional glass painting with Albinus Elskus and has developed and improved his techniques for the past 40 years. Bring any questions you may have had about glass fusing; within 10 minutes Bert should be able to troubleshoot!

Class 1204 - Master Class: Painting On Glass with Bert Weiss

Instructor: Bert Weiss
Dates: President's Day Weekend - February 18, 19 & 20th, 2012
Time: 10 am - 4pm each day
Tuition: $400
Click HERE to jump to the WGS class website page.

Compelled by Tim Tate

2012-01-19T08:55:00.004-05:00

Many in the DC area know the work of sculptor Tim Tate - but I am sure many are not aware of the origins of his imagery and what drives him to make such personal artwork. Recently, Tim met with a museum curator for a show later to be installed this year and Tim outlined his obsessions. It is such a fascinating story - I insisted that the school blog share it with all:

The Foundations of Tim Tate’s Artwork

My art grows out of my life filled with unusual experiences, though it begins simply enough. I grew up in a household filled with art supplies, as my mother was an artist. My original intent as an adolescent was to take ceramics at Cranbrook, but my family could not afford to send me, so I had to settle, making art on the side while beginning a different career path.

Then, as a very young man, I received a terminal diagnosis. I was given less than a year to live, a very difficult concept for a young man to get his head around. I remember that one of my first thoughts was that I was living in someone else’s life. That I was living the life others wanted me to live. I decided at that instant to try to reclaim my artistic side.

With only a year to live, there was no need to apply to grad school….so I discovered the amazing workshops at Penland and threw myself into learning. Yet, at the end of a year, I was surprisingly still alive. They told me I was lucky, but that I should sew up my affairs, as I still had but a year at most. I heard this yearly for the next 10 years.

It’s hard to imagine, I know….to live for over a decade believing I would be struck down at any minute. It changes you and your priorities. Legacy becomes imperative. To be remembered after you are gone. It affected me the most by making sure that every free hour or trip I could spare was to Penland. My entire reason for surviving became the need to master and understand the artistic medium of glass, though I could only afford the 1- or 2-week classes. I lived this way for 10 years.

Then my mother passed away. In her will she left me enough money and instructions to take a concentration class at Penland. Now I had 2 full months to invest towards my work. Prior to this concentration I had completely focused on technique. The class completely changed my life. It focused almost entirely on narrative content. My final piece was a design to hold my mother’s ashes and memories. One of these works went straight to the Renwick Museum. Today it is in the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

So much about glass art at this time was technique driven, but I truly believed it could be so much more. I was determined to have glass taken seriously as a sculptural medium. My work revolved around healing and memory, heaven and hell, nostalgia and resurrection. I began working in the form of reliquaries.

Glass, and Penland, had saved my life to that point. I began seeing each of my pieces as a way to connect to the viewer…to act as a healing agent for them, as well as for me while creating the piece. At first these pieces simply included objects, then they began including text. I also became obsessed with miniaturizing objects. I would make them out of clay, then use lost wax casting to make objects…..hundreds of objects. Each one I made became a language in my image library. Each one carried significance, and by combining them I could produce a dialog. These dialogs became very elaborate, but always with my true themes of healing and memory, heaven and hell, nostalgia and resurrection.

I produced over 100 of these reliquaries….each one healing me just a little bit more. In my mind, each one was truly imbued with existential healing powers not only for myself, but for whoever owned them. I still believe this.

At a certain point I realized that by adding video to my work, my narrative could be exponentially expanded. I became as obsessed with video as I was with glass. Now I could really examine the themes I had become so interested in. I also started realizing that I could leave glass behind. My work separated into two distinct categories. For shows like S.O.F.A. and the material-based galleries that supported it, my work focused heavily on my interest in miniaturization of objects in glass. When I added video, the dialog in these forums was still frequently about the technique used in producing the glass, though the intellectual property had shifted. There will always be a fascination with small glass objects.

In the shows like ArtBasel and its satellite shows, however, as well as the galleries that support them, the dialog completely shifted to the concept behind the piece. This has allowed me to fully expand my specific narrative to video, not always including glass. Now I could expand my work to larger series, and have shows that were solely video. This will be the case in my large museum show next summer.

In all this, my narrative has not changed. Knowing that I am headed to Heaven (or more certainly Hell), I love inventing heaven and hell the way I want to see them. I still am always investigating man’s relationship with healing and reliquary…even when the reliquary takes the form of video. I still work through my own angst about memory and nostalgia, but I broaden it beyond my immediate experience to make it more universal…less specific. Thus my videos may be the most healing of all my work.

You are probably asking what happened to the terminal diagnosis - which was 28 years ago. Well, the diagnosis still stands. But fortunately the doctors were wrong regarding its speed. This helps explain why I’m driven so hard. I always believe I will be struck down suddenly.

My obsession with healing and reliquary continues, even in video form. Hopefully this will give you additional insight into each piece you see. The more a viewer relates to my work, the more successful it becomes to me.

I see my sculptures as self-contained video installations. Blending a traditional craft with new media technology gives me the framework into which I fit my artistic narrative. Revelation — and in some cases self-revelation — is the underlying theme of my electronic reliquaries.

My interactive pieces can be seen as disturbing because the face that stares back from the video screen — your own — prompts a variety of responses: amusement, discomfort, embarrassment, something akin to the feeling you have when someone catches you looking at your own reflection in a store window as you walk by.

But the important revelations here are in the viewer’s response to my hybrid art form and its conceptual nature. I try to bare everything — the guts of my materials and my inner thoughts — in deceptively simple narrative videos set into specimen jars. Nothing is random, all elements are thought out.

To me, these works are phylacteries of sorts, the transparent reliquaries in which bits of saints’ bones or hair — relics — are displayed. In many cultures and religions, relics are believed to have healing powers. My relics are temporal, sounds and moving images formally enshrined, encapsulating experiences like cultural specimens. And perhaps, to the contemporary soul, they are no less reliquaries than those containing the bones of a saint.

Art-o-matic is back for 2012!

2012-01-18T11:08:00.002-05:00

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Artomatic Returns to Crystal City in 2012!

Free and Open to All, May 18th - June 24th

Artomatic returns to Crystal City in 2012 for our signature free arts event, to be held in the biggest Artomatic building ever, from May 18 - June 24.

Artomatic will partner with the Crystal City Business Improvement District (BID) to transform the Transwestern Presidential Tower at 2511 S. Clark St. in Crystal City into a vibrant arts community that celebrates creativity and creates a unique and exciting event for tens of thousands of visitors - all free to visit.

Registration information to exhibit work at Artomatic will be available soon. To get the latest updates, keep an eye on your email, and subscribe to Artomatic by Facebook, or Twitter.

Ginny Ruffner: A Not So Still Life

2012-01-17T09:46:00.002-05:00

Save The Date!
February 29, 2012 at noon, the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum will screen “Ginny Ruffner: A Not So Still Life.” “A Not So Still Life” peers into the kaleidoscopic mind of American glass artist Ginny Ruffner. The documentary explores Ruffner’s journey from her childhood in South Carolina to her emergence as a world-renowned artist. The film also highlights her influences, including Dale Chihuly, Graham Nash, and Tom Robbins. The film is 80 minutes in length and was directed by Karen Stanton; produced by Shadowcatcher Entertainment/Tom Gorai. The event will take place at the Grand Salon of the Renwick Gallery and admission is free. After the screening, Ginny will participate in a discussion about the film and sign copies of the DVD that will be available for purchase on site.

Glass artist Ginny Ruffner can’t be summed up in one word, but the most commonly used term is “inspiring”. Adding to Ginny’s extraordinary story is her astounding recovery from a near-fatal car accident in 1991 which left her in a coma for five weeks and confined to a hospital for five months. Doctors were convinced that she would never walk or talk again, but true to her indomitable spirit, Ginny Ruffner transformed a potentially tragic accident into a career of even more imaginative creations. From pop-up books, to room-sized installation pieces, to public works, Ginny’s art has blossomed and continues to expand. Ginny Ruffner: A Not So Still Life marks ShadowCatcher Entertainment’s first feature-length documentary, and one sure to challenge you to see the world from a new and unexpected perspective.

Following screening of the film, Maurine Littleton will feature an exhibition of Ginny’s work at the gallery. The gallery event will begin approximately at 2:00 PM and Ginny will be present.

The Maurine Littleton Gallery is located at 1667 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington DC.

History of Fused Glass

2012-01-16T11:43:00.007-05:00

2012 is the milestone year for the Studio Art Glass Movement - taking its start the Toledo workshops with Harvey Littleton & Dominick Labino. I know there are many events planned and stories that will be published this year about how glass moved from the factory into the hands of artists - but for studio glass - usually the focus is on blown glass.
I want to do a blog posting that references the history of warm glass.

Who would you suggest as the fused glass pioneers, superstars & legends? I know of Klaus Moje and Richard La Londe - but who else jumps to mind when mentioning kiln-formed glass?

Klaus Moje

Ray Ahlgren, Dan Schwoerer, Boyce Lundstrom (Bullseye Glass Founders in the groovy 1970's)

Personally, I'd prefer suggestions of artists that set the foundation for and outlined the language on which we all build our work upon. Pix, links - all is welcome as suggestions.
You can post ideas here or email me at the glass school: (washglassschool@aol.com)

Thanks! B

Historical Glass Fun Facts : Invention of Pyrex & the Studio Glass Movement

2012-01-14T08:11:00.007-05:00

From this. . . . . . .. . . . . . . .to this.

"It was all her idea"

The History of Pyrex
Back in the early 1900's, Corning Glass Works was working on a request from the railroads to produce lantern glass that would not break when the hot glass was struck by rain or snow. In response to this request, Corning developed globes made from low-expansion glass that could withstand the abuses of weathering and handling which readily broke the flint glass globes. Ironically, the shatterproof lantern globes generated were so good that Corning's managers witnessed a decline in sales of replacement globes. This super-tough "fire glass", as it was called, was resistant to temperature fluctuations, chemical corrosion and even breakage. Eugene Sullivan, Director of Research at Corning Glass Works, developed Nonex, a borosilicate low-expansion glass, to reduce breakage in shock-resistant lantern globes and battery jars. (Borosilicate glass was originally developed at the Jena Glass works by Otto Schott, which Sullivan had learned about as a doctoral student in Leipzig, Germany.)

In July 1913, a series of events involving Bessie Littleton, the wife of the company's newest scientist - Dr Jessie Littleton, forced Corning managers to focus their attention on the consumer venture. Apparently, Mrs. Littleton had used a Guernsey brand casserole only twice when it fractured in the oven. Knowing the strength of the glass her husband worked with on a daily basis, she implored him to bring home a substitute from the Corning Glass Works plant. He returned the next evening with the bottoms of two sawed-off battery jars made from low-expansion glasses. Mrs. Littleton cooked a sponge cake in one of the surrogate baking dishes. She noted several remarkable findings:
• The cooking time was shorter
• The cake did not stick to the glass; it was easy to remove with little adhesion
• The cake was unusually uniform
• The flavor of the cake did not remain in the dish after washing
• She could watch the cake bake and know it was done by looking at the underside.

Mr. Littleton brought his wife's creation to work the following day. Laboratory researchers inspected the cake, which was a "remarkable uniform shade of brown all over." The men deemed it delicious and very well baked. (A favorite of any lab conclusion, Ed.) Thus began a two-year process to perfect this new invention. The notion of baking in glass was a whole new concept to the public. In 1915, a wondrous new line of "glass dishes for baking" appeared in the nation's hardware, department and china stores. On May 18, 1915, Boston department store Jordan Marsh placed the first PYREX bakeware order.

The Littleton’s had a son – Harvey K Littleton. Harvey was born in 1922 and was briefly employed by the Corning Glass Works in the 1940s, where he developed his glassmaking skills and began to pursue the idea of glass as a medium for artistic expression. The earliest objects in the exhibition are two experimental cast female torsos, dating to 1942 and 1946, which are the first works in glass made by Littleton while working at Corning Glass Works. Also featured are glass vessels from the early 1960s, dating to the years just after the seminal Toledo Workshops, as well as a bottle made at the 1962 Workshops.

Click HERE to jump to the story of Harvey Littleton and his historic workshops that brought glass from the factory to the artists.

Other Glass Fun Facts to know and tell:

Glass Fun Facts: Gaffer/Composer

More Glass Fun Facts: Bullseye Glass

Float Glass Fun Facts

Glass Fun Facts - Shattered Glass Predicts Weather

Why is Glass Transparent?

Ceramic Sutra at Baltimore Clayworks.

2012-01-13T09:47:00.007-05:00

This Saturday from 6-8 pm is the opening reception for the show "Ceramic Sutra" at Baltimore Clayworks.Ceramic superstar (and illustrious neighbor to Washington Glass School), Novie Trump, was invited to not only jury this gorgeous show of book- themed ceramic sculpture but to contribute work as well.

Artists from across the US submitted works that interpreted the book theme with wonderful imagination and creativity, making this a must-see show for 2012.

Baltimore Clayworks

5707 Smith Ave.

Baltimore, Maryland 21209
Phone: 410 578 1919

Gallery Hours: Mon–Sat, 10:00–5:00pm (Closed Sundays)

The gallery will be closed Monday, January 16 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

For more info - click HERE

"Our Small Rooms" at the Cafritz Arts Center Opens Tonite!

2012-01-12T15:53:00.003-05:00

Our Small Rooms

Michele Banks and Kendall Nordin

Two D.C. artists, Michele Banks and Kendall Nordin, focus on the delicacy and complexity of autonomic cellular processes: Banks through jewel-toned watercolors, and Nordin via a site-specific mixed-media installation.

January 12–March 9, 2012

Opening Reception: Thursday, February 9, 6–8 p.m.

Open Gallery

Cafritz Arts Center, Montgomery College

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Location: The Open Gallery is on the ground floor of The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation Arts Center located at 930 King Street on the west side of the Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Parking is available in the West Garage, located immediately behind the center. For maps and directions, visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/maps.

For more information: Call 240-567-5821 or visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/arts-tpss/exhibitions

Bert Weiss' Master Painting on Glass Class

2012-01-12T14:58:00.000-05:00

Led by master glass artist Bert Weiss, this three-day glass painting technique class features multiple projects designed to give the student a better understanding of glass painting and its enormous potential in fused glass. Bert's techniques allow you to use vibrant colors without worrying about glass compatibility. The course will show you how to mix metallic oxide colorants with glass and create oil paint like-washes.

This course is suitable for all levels of experience. Students do not need to bring anything, all the tools and materials are provided for the course - just wear suitable old clothes and sturdy shoes... oh, and bring a lunch!

Bert Weiss studied traditional glass painting with Albinus Elskus and has developed and improved his techniques for the past 40 years. Bring any questions you may have had about glass fusing; within 10 minutes Bert should be able to troubleshoot! Cut off sign-up date is Jan 30, 2012.

Class 1204 - Master Class: Painting On Glass with Bert Weiss
Instructor: Bert Weiss
Dates: President's Day Weekend - February 18, 19 & 20th, 2012
Time: 10 am - 4pm each day
Tuition: $400
Click HERE to jump to the WGS class website page.

Looking for Glass Studio Space? Here 'Tis!

2012-01-11T13:01:00.016-05:00

If you have always wanted a studio space to work on your kiln-formed glass, but didn't have room where you live, or didn't have a huge amount to invest in a giant glass studio.....then you might like the thought of becoming one of the studio artists here.

Your table/studio space runs $275 per month, and not only do you finally have a dedicated space for you to work in, but you also join a vibrant and successful community of glass artists and opportunities.

The Washington Glass School (near the Rhode Island/ Route 1 Eastern Ave border of the District of Columbia) is now accepting applications for incubator studio spaces (available immediately).

As a studio artist - besides being part of a community, you have access to the studio's cold shop facility and kiln firings.

Interested? Give Tim Tate a call 202-744-8222!
Or email: washglassschool@aol.com

Washington Glass School
3700 Otis Street, Mount Rainier, MD
(202) 744-8222

The Dream is Alive in Portland, OR

2012-01-09T15:18:00.001-05:00

Portland - where young people go to retire - as portrayed on IFC channel.
Click on image to jump to video segment.

Opening night of "Facture" exhibit at Bullseye Gallery, Portland, OR.

Opening night photos by Robert Wade.

I am doing a couple of blog postings from Portland, Oregon - the "City of Bridges" (aka City of Roses, Stumptown, PDX or Portlandia). In town for the Bullseye Gallery talk (at the BE Resource Center) - I have a chance to look around this groovy, funky town that has quickly become one of my fav cities.

Cool things about Portland:
Powells Books: I could have spent the entire weekend roaming the aisles of this place.

Powell's Bookstore is addictive.

Good Food: Portland has interesting zoning in the downtown that allows street food truck vendors to flourish. Many of the downtown parking lots are fringed with an amazing assortment of high quality food trucks.

A Sense of Style: Portland has this in many ways - the city has a strong hipster vibe, similar to the hippie feel of Asheville, NC - and lampooned in the TV show Portlandia. It also has the art scene that includes a strong glass presence that Bullseye Factory and Gallery bring to the town. Bullseye Gallery opened the Facture show this past week, and held a panel discussion on Sunday. Below are some shots from the opening.

Photos from the opening of Facture by Robert Wade.

Click HERE to jump to one of the media mentions of the show.

Bullseye Gallery Features Artists That "Paint" With Glass

2012-01-05T19:04:00.003-05:00

Touching With A Lighter Hand / Michael Janis

Bullseye Gallery in Portland, Oregon has a great new show of work by artists that use glass as a canvas. "Facture" has already created a bit of a buzz. The GLASS Quarterly's Ruth Reader has a great article and interview with Michael Janis about using glass as a painter's canvas. This weekend, January 8, from 2 - 4 pm, Bullseye will host a panel discussion with artists Michael Janis, Kari Minnick, Martha Pfanschmidt, Ted Sawyer, Abi Spring, and Jeff Wallin; moderated by Michael End. The artists will also present images and discuss their methods.

Bullseye special events are offered free of charge, but advance reservations are required. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours prior to events. To reserve your spot, call or email BE: 503.227.2797 or portlandclasses@bullseyeglass.com

Bullseye Resource Center, 3610 SE 21st Avenue, Portland, Oregon

Click HERE to jump to Bullseye Gallery website images of works in the show.

Tim Tate - What a Comedian!

2012-01-05T09:16:00.001-05:00

Everyone knows that Tim Tate is a storyteller artist extraordinaire. His narrative works are often informed with a wry sense of humor. Tim's funnybone is now part of a new book by Schiffer Books.

Hardcover: 256 pages, Publisher: Schiffer Publishing (Release date: March 28, 2012), ISBN-10: 076434059X

Author Brigitte Martin has put together a book - "Humor In Craft" - featuring highly ironic, political, sarcastic, and just plain amusing works by artists from across the US and abroad. The book sure to challenge viewers to move beyond their own frames of reference when considering approaches to contemporary art.

Pittsburgh's Society for Contemporary Craft (SCC) will be including Tim's work "My Love Life Thus Far" in the Society for Contemporary Craft exhibition of work selected from the 265 artists in the book Humor in Craft this July 20 through October 27, 2012. A national tour of the exhibition is planned and further information on this will be forthcoming as soon as details have been finalized.

My Love Thus Far / Tim Tate

photo credit Pete Duvall / anythingphoto.net

Below is the video that is contained within the reliquary - the building collapses and resurrects in a continual loop.

Erwin Timmers featured at Smithsonian Craft Show

2012-01-03T13:47:00.019-05:00

"Celebrating the Creative Spirit of America"

The magnificent National Building Museum is the setting for the Smithsonian Craft Show.

Widely regarded as the country's most prestigious juried show and sale of fine American Craft, the 2012 Smithsonian Craft Show celebrates its 30th Anniversary. Ceramics, glass, embroidery, beadwork, leather, woodwork, furniture, mixed media… if it’s considered a craft, it will be represented among the 120 hand-picked artists. Eco-artist Erwin Timmers was selected to exhibit at this year's show - one of the 120 from the field of 1300 artist applicants.

photo credits for Erwin Timmers glass rubberband sculptures: Pete Duvall/anythingphoto.net

Erwin Timmers has been working on some new sculptural forms made from cast recycled glass. His work is informed with both wit and beauty, and his glass artwork celebrates the richness of shape, texture and translucency of glass.

Be sure to see Erwin's bold new colors and forms being created from recycled material - as featured in the Washington Post's Magazine article that came out this summer. Click HERE to jump to the Washington Post article online.

Smithsonian Craft Show, April 19-22, 2012

National Building Museum, 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001

Click HERE to jump to the Smithsonian Craft Show website.

Best Wishes for 2012

2011-12-30T10:26:00.001-05:00

Tim Tate's New Orleans AIDS Memorial is the fitting image to illustrate the Best Wishes for 2012
In the artwork cast glass family and friends that are no longer with us keep protective watch.
Installation artist and architect Ira Tattelman recently was in New Orleans and sent the photo below where the flowers were placed to honor the loved ones.

"Guardian Wall" - New Orleans AIDS Memorial
Designed by Tim Tate

Photo: Ira Tattelman

May All Stay Safe & Be Surrounded With Loved Ones in 2012!

2011 WGS Year-In-Review

2011-12-29T09:31:00.042-05:00

Looking thru the Washington Glass School postings (both official school blog and the more casual Facebook page) and events from a few months ago seem like ages ago. The strange phenomena of time flying by is observed again. Many of the years past events were months - or years- in planning and preparation, and seemed like they would never happen, now seem faraway, and the impact, both good and bad will be here for a while. Some high points, some sad loss. Month by month - here is a quick review of Washington Glass School's 2011:

January 2011

The year started out with some new artistic directions.

Jeff Zimmer works on his layered glass imagery.
WGS Alum Jeff Zimmer worked on some new pieces for the school's 10th Anniversary show. Its been a great year for Jeff - his work was part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show in Oct.

artist: Christina Bothwell media:clay & glass.
The foundation for "Glass Secessionism" was outlined as a challenge for the aesthetics of the 21st century.

Matt (m l duffy) checks for tin side. The school's new-fangled digital tin-o-meter also arrived in 2011.
Matthew Duffy began working on fabrication of the Washington Glass Studio's public art project for Safeway Bethesda.

Susan documents Rob Kincheloe's lampwork process. Susan's strong photographic skills will be part of her book series.
Susan Lomuto (aka Daily Art Muse) arrived into the area to do a residency in the glass school and the surrounding ceramics studios.

February

artist: Kirk Waldroff media cast glass, led lighting, wood
Kirk Waldroff opens his mixed media/glass print exhibit at Glenview Mansion. Dr Claudia Rousseau reviewed his artwork.

March

photo by : Pete Duvall
American Craft Magazine has a large feature of the collaborative works by Tim Tate and Marc Petrovic.

April

This glass work is good enough to shout about.
Kirk Waldroff's printmaking with glass class is one of the stronger design class of the year, with a number of students taking off in creative directions.

Ready for framing and the Smithsonian.
Glass artist Judith Schaechter held a creativity workshop for the JRA at the Washington Glass School.

artist: Elizabeth Ryland Mears, Tex Forrest Crowds packed the gallery
The Washington Glass School 10th Anniversary exhibition opens at Long View Gallery in Washington, DC.

Post critic Michael O'Sullivan's in-depth review of the show.
The Washington Post reviews the Long View show, asking "Is Glass Only Pretty?".

June

Gallery 555 exhibit of WGS student work.
Gallery 555 also hosted an exhibition in honor of the 10th Anniversary of WGS, with a successful show of student works.

Rob Kincheloe coldworks the glass, evaluating the quality of the recycled float glass casting.
National Geographic commissioned the Washington Glass Studio to create a special "environment" award for singer Jack Johnson. The development of the award design and creation was documented in the blog's new feature column "The Process".

Tim Tate's work at Wheaton Arts. View of Maurine Littleton Gallery space during GlassWeekend.
Rising Star - Michael Janis
The Bi-annual "GlassWeekend" was this year with a huge show at WheatonArts The Creative Glass Center of America (CCGA and theArt Alliance for Contemporary Glass (AACG) named our Michael Janis a "Rising Star" at the event.

July

Tim Tate is filmed by PBS documentary crew as he speaks to the tour group.
Wendy Rosen brought a contingent of international guests - leaders of national craft federations and craft advocacy groups, as well as diplomats and government officials - as part of the World Craft Council held in Washington, DC.

yeah, hand-forged steel is nice and all... but what about the glass?
Chris Shea's forged metal and glass sculpture/furniture was added to the Smithsonian's permanent collection of the Renwick Gallery.

Conner Contemporary hosted a book release party in honor of F Lennox Campello's book "100 Artists of Washington, DC" - one of the more successful in the Schiffer Books line of artist reference series.

August

An unusual month in terms of "natural events". An earthquake hit DC, causing some minor damage to the glass display area in the student gallery of the school. Later in the month - a massive heatwave sent temps over 100 degrees F, and also Hurricane Irene hit DC.

Michael talks with art patrons about the imagery in glass. Michael Janis' solo show at Fuller Craft Museum opened. Perry Price - the Associate Curator of the Museum later commented that they had some of the highest media coverage of the show, and that the Docents worked the educational aspects of the show with the visiting school students.

Installation began on the Safeway public art project. Evan Morgan returned to help install.

WaPo columnist Kris Coronado interviews Erwin and share a laugh. Erwin Timmers was featured in the Washington Post Magazine on the "Art of Recycling".

Jason Burnett showcases Tim's video reliquary at the auction.
Tim Tate's artwork was part of the Penland School Auction - and sets a new record!

September

Architectural artwork by artists, instructors and students commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the Washington Glass School was installed on the facade of the school.

Zenith Gallery hosted a book release exhibition for the "100 Artists of the Mid Atlantic" that featured each of the WGS directors.

The national organization Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass (AACG) held its annual meeting in Washington, DC this year. Part of the events included tours of glass spots - museum tours, collector's homes, gallery talks and a fun night at the Washington Glass School. A huge bar-be-que was on the menu that night, with an ice cream truck dispensing Good Humor to all.

October

Safeway's new public art lights up the Bethesda streetscene.
The public art and architectural installation created for Safeway supermarket in Bethesda opened in spectacular fashion.

DC's Seed Charter School had a class at WGS that mixed art, history, chemistry, mathematics and physics.

November

Maurine Littleton Gallery space at SOFA Chicago 2011. Marc Petrovic's work at Heller Gallery. Tim Tate's work at Jane Sauer Gallery.
The BIG show - SOFA Chicago. Allegra Marquart, Michael Janis, Tim Tate each did well at the huge international art fair this year, and the hope that the trend continues to the next year is held by all!

The United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) celebrated its centennial with glass. The organization commissioned special artwork for families of Edward Kennedy and Dwight Eisenhower in memory of the work each had done. The red carpet gala event feature celebrities and performances by Wyclef Jean.

December

As Rob Kincheloe sets up a dedicated Torch work studio in Virginia, Mick Coughlan joined the school as the new studio coordinator.

The Fulbright Program named Tim Tate & Michael Janis each as recipients of Fulbrights. In 2012, both will be off to University of Sunderland starting in March.

Nicole Puzan, 1983-2011, Studio Coordinator, Artist, Friend

After a battle with cancer, our Nicole Puzan passed away in December.

There are so many stories from the last year, this posting started as a short list and there were so many events and shows that these are the ones that made it to this (almost) final posting for the year.

Here's to the hope that 2012 will be a good year for all!

Artist’s and Collector’s New Year’s Party!

2011-12-28T10:17:00.009-05:00

No plans for New Year’s Eve yet? Here’s a very unusual event you may want to attend!

The James Renwick Alliance is throwing a fund raiser for the museum at the spectacular home of ubercollectors Ben and Giselle Huberman in Potomac, MD. Did I say home? I meant castle! This 30,000 sq ft four story unbelievable house will play host to an Art Casino Night. Poker and Roulette will be there….but instead of money, you win art! Plus its catered!

Ben & Giselle Huberman

Artists include many local folks…..Tim Tate, Andrew Wodzianski, Sean Hennessey…..dozens of others. And here is the bizarre part - Tim Tate will be the Master of Ceremonies! (quelle Fellini). It’s a fund raiser….so its $250 per person (tax deductible). For that you get $50 worth of chips to play at the casino. There is also an artist treasure hunt in the house with a great prize!

What could be more fun! Gambling in a magnificent house, fully catered food and wine, dancing, cabaret…..and art for prizes!! If you are interested, call Tim at 202-744-8222. You must have your name in and be paid by Friday at 5pm.

Hope to see you there!

Washington Glass Presents to James Renwick Alliance

2011-12-26T03:30:00.001-05:00

Clemmer Montague - President of the James Renwick Alliance introduces the panel of speakers to the audience.

The James Renwick Alliance (JRA) is dedicated to advancing scholarship and education on contemporary American craft and to encouraging connoisseurship and collecting. The Alliance assists the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Renwick Gallery in adding to its permanent collection of American craft, supports scholarly research in contemporary American craft and pursues other activities in support of the studio craft movement. As part if this goal, the JRA held a talk on the process and inspirations that made up Washington Glass Studio's recently completed Safeway Bethesda public art project. The talk was much more popular than the organizers had anticipated, as there was standing room only. Readers of the Glass School blog are familiar with the development of the project. Here are some shots of the event - photos by Miriam Rosenthal of ThirdEyePhotography.

Safeway's Renee Montgomery, Safeway's Eastern Division, Area Real Estate Manager outlines the Safeway's approach towards supporting and integrating American craft artwork in its buildings.

Michael Janis outlines the concepts employed by the glass studio.

The audience is transfixed by the sheer poetry of the project .

Here Michael describes how eco-artist Erwin Timmers is planning to save the planet with his sustainable design artwork - one piece at a time.

"This is the part where Erwin sings ♪ Here I Come To Save The Day! ♫"

The talk continued with a tour of the Safeway public art project onsite, hosted by Tim Tate and Erwin Timmers. For more information about the James Renwick Alliance events - click HERE.

Happy Holidays To All! From Washington Glass School.

2011-12-21T14:22:00.001-05:00

From Michael Janis' extensive Santa Collection

Washington Glass School Winter Exhibition 2011

2011-12-20T12:28:00.021-05:00

The Washington Glass School 10th Anniversary Winter Sculpture Exhibition and Open House was held on December 10, 2011. Here are some shots from the day:

Mount Rainier City Councilman Jimmy Tarlau checks out the Open House - loving the artwork by Dave Cook.

The Washington Post had featured Erwin Timmers cast recycled glass in the Weekend Section - and his work had drawn many visitors.

Erwin Timmers chats about art with Stephan Thurman and Laurie Brown.

The Glass School's newest elf - Mick Coughlan - updates and advises Santa on the current "Naughty or Nice" status.

From the looks of the conversation between Robert Kincheloe and M.L.Duffy - I'm guessing "Naughty" list material.

Sean Hennessey chats with one of the art patrons about his mixed media works.

Takoma Park's Exhibits Director, Alison Carr with her family - checking out Sean Hennessey's concrete-and-glass sculpture.

Syl Mathis' cast glass sculpture always draws a crowd.

Everyone wants to know more about the artwork on exhibit.

Debra Ruzinsky exhibits her beautiful cast glass - Sweet!

Nancy Donnelly's copper, glass and steel sculpture were some of the most popular works in the show. Nancy nearly sold out of all her work. I understand that she had another art opening after the school's show, and sold many of her painting works! This is Nancy's year!

Speaking of years - this is also a big one for metalworker Chris Shea. Chris' artwork was recently acquired by the Smithsonian Museum as part of the permanent collection at the Renwick Gallery. Congratulations, Chris!

Michael Janis explains his "sgraffito" technique of drawing with crushed glass powder.

Relaxing in the lounge - Robert Kincheloe, ceramic artist Novie Trump, and Sean Hennessey.

It was a great time to check out the new class schedule, meet the artists, visit with friends. Looking forward to what 2012 will bring!

The Art of Recycling with Erwin Timmers

2011-12-19T11:51:00.003-05:00

Corcoran College of Art & Design graduate student Uliana Bazar has been working on a documentary about our Mr Green - Erwin Timmers. Below is a link to her insightful video "The Art of Recycling With Erwin Timmers" - where Erwin talks of ecological sustainable artwork, his recycled glass casting process and a glimpse at some of his new cast recycled glass artwork.

Some walk-ons - "there's Bert Weiss!" - "...is that Susan Lomuto welding?"

"International Glass Prize" Competition

2011-12-19T09:54:00.006-05:00

Flemish Center for Contemporary Glass Art, Lommel, Belgium

Charlotte van der Seijs - a private foundation - has announced a new competition for artists working with glass. The International Glass Prize is “a triennial international glass competition for arts, design, and crafts” hosted by the GlazenHuis in Lommel, Belgium, a glass museum housed in a strikingly modern building comprised of mostly glass.

The theme of the first competition is quite simple: The Object.

The prizes total 20,000 Euros (Appoximately $27,500 US), which is divided as follows: 10,000 Euros prize money, 10,000 Euros to purchase a work for the GlazenHuis collection, and two residencies at the GlazenHuis Studios. The organizers have made entry into the competition easy, accepting up to three works from any one artist, forgoing an entry fee, and no age limit. Acceptable types of entries include product design, free form, sculptural glass and mixed media, as long as glass is the primary material.

Applications are being accepted until February 1, 2012, with the selection of contestants notified within the following two weeks. Winners will be announced the 6th of July, and the exhibition will be on display in GlazenHuis until October 8, 2012.

MEMBERS OF THE JURY:

Tina OLDKNOW (US), curator modern glass, Corning Museum of Glass, New York, United States
Jan BOELEN (BE), director Z33, platform for design and visual art Limburg, Hasselt, Belgium
Richard MEITNER (US/NL), artist, professor Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal
Jeroen MAES (BE), artistic coordinator GlazenHuis, Lommel, Belgium

PRIZES:

EUR 10,000 : This amount in total will be awarded as the prize. The jury will award this to 1 prize-winner, or divide the amount as it deems is in accordance with its findings, between 2 or (maximally) 3 prize-winners.
EUR 10,000 : For the expansion of the municipal glass collection the City of Lommel (Belgium) will invest up to EUR 10,000 in purchasing work(s) from the exhibition.
Residencies : In addition to the cash prizes, 2 residencies of 6 days in the GlazenHuis glass studio will be awarded at a value of EUR 3,900 including hot and cold glass studio time with assistant, and travel and accommodation expenses.

The application form is only being accepted online. Visit the official competition site - click HERE

Hamiltonian Artists Fellowship Applications

2011-12-16T05:36:00.000-05:00

Hamiltonian Artists Fellowship Program is Now Accepting Applications for 2012-2014 Term.
Deadline: Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Hamiltonian Artists, a 501(c)3, is excited to announce its fifth annual open call to emerging artists to apply to our two-year Fellowship Program, aimed at aiding in the professional development of contemporary visual artists.
What will you receive as a Hamiltonian Fellow?
- Professional Development

- An Annual Stipend

- Five Exhibitions in the Gallery, as well as Off-Site Exhibition Opportunities

- Mentorship

- Critiques- Access to Premier Arts Professionals

- Involvement in the Vibrant DC Arts Community

Please refer to the website for application requirements, restrictions and forms. The application process will close at 6:00 pm on on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, and any applications received after that date will not be considered.

http://www.hamiltonianartists.org/apply/

Email or call the gallery with any additional questions.

Hamiltonian Artists
1353 U Street, NW
Suite 101
Washington, DC 20009
202.332.1116
www.hamiltonianartists.org
www.hamiltoniangallery.com

Harvey K. Littleton and the Studio Glass Movement

2011-12-14T12:38:00.016-05:00

In 1962, two groundbreaking workshops led by artist Harvey K. Littleton and glass scientist Dominick Labino introduced artists to the material of glass as a medium for artistic expression. Littleton and Labino presented their development of a small, portable furnace and low temperature melting-point glass, providing artists access to glass and glassblowing techniques for the first time. These workshops kickstarted the Studio Glass movement, which emphasized the artist as designer and maker, with a focus on making one-of-a-kind objects.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the American Studio Glass movement, in 2012, a number of museums will be mounting exhibitions on the history and origins of the movement.

The Corning Museum of Glass has two exhibitions that opened November 17, 2011 and will run through January 6, 2013.

In the Spring 2012: Chazen Museum of Art (University of Wisconsin, Madison) has an exhibition planned, and there is an exhibition planned for November 2, 2012 thru December 21, 2012 at the: Visual Arts Center of Richmond (Richmond, Virginia)

The man called the father of the Studio Glass Movement was not at first a glass artist. Littleton was born in 1922 and raised in Corning, New York. Throughout his childhood, he had many opportunities to observe glassworking processes and to learn about the properties of glass at the Corning Glass Works. His father, Dr. Jesse T. Littleton, known as J.T., was an expert in the infrared properties of silicon and the first physicist to join the newly established research team at Corning Glass Works headed by Dr. Eugene C. Sullivan.

J.T. Littleton often discussed the properties of glass as dinnertime conversation, and Saturday morning visits to the glassworks were routine for Littleton when he was young. In 1936, he and his brothers witnessed, with his father and many others, the dramatic failure of the first casting of the 200-inch mirror for the Hale Telescope at Mount Palomar in California.

Littleton’s mother, Bessie Cook Littleton, was instrumental in developing Corning’s Pyrex cookware. J. T. Littleton had the idea that Corning’s low-expansion borosilicate glass, which had been developed for use in battery jars (used in rural areas before widespread electrification), could be used for cooking. He took home a battery jar that had been cut into a round, shallow pan, and he convinced his wife to bake a cake in it. Her success led to the development of Corning’s Pyrex housewares.

After receiving a master of Fine Arts from Cranbrook Academy of Arts Harvey Littleton embarked on the career of potter. Littleton received recognition for his work as a ceramicist in a national exhibition sponsored by the American Crafts Council at the First International Exposition of Ceramics in Cannes, France.

In 1959 he began to investigate the possibility of glass as a medium, and in 1960 had melted glass and cold-worked lumps of cullet. In the summer of 1962 the Toledo Museum of Art invited Littleton to lead a glassblowing workshop. It was in that seminar that Littleton introduced the idea that glass could be mixed and melted, blown and worked in the studio by the artist. Up to that time it was widely believed that glass objects could only be made in the highly structured, mass-produced world of the glass industry where the labor of making glass is divided between designers and skilled craftsmen.

With Littleton’s active encouragement and promotion, glass programs sprang up at universities, art schools, and summer programs across the country during the late 1960s and early 1970s; and the Studio Glass movement became an international phenomenon. What began fifty years ago as a small group of artists who shared an interest in glass as an artistic material has grown into an international community of thousands.”

In 1984, his daughter, Maurine Littleton opened an art gallery committed to artists working in glass and ceramics in Washington DC’s historic Georgetown neighborhood.

Rizzoli Publications

Maurine advised on Joan Falconer Byrd's new book : “Harvey K Littleton: A Life in Glass” - This new book has many previously unpublished archival photographs and a detailed chronology. Images and the history of Littleton’s early ceramic and glass vessels and his richly colorful glass sculptures, among them the late “Lyrical Movement” series are detailed in this beautifully designed book. The book includes work by his close friend and European counterpart Erwin Eisch and his former student and much-celebrated glass artist Dale Chihuly.

Below is "Pioneers of Studio Glass" - a video that was produced by WGTE Public Media for the Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass. It is a fascinating look at the 1962 Toledo Workshops where Harvey Littleton and Dominick Labino first experimented with making glass outside of the factory setting.

Pioneers of Studio Glass from corecubed on Vimeo.

Tim Tate & Michael Janis - Fulbright Recipients

2011-12-13T13:12:00.016-05:00

Professor Janis

This March, WGS Professors Janis and Tate will be heading over the pond to Ye Olde England as Fulbright Scholars - heading to University Of Sunderland and the The Institute for International Research in Glass (IIRG).

Professor Tate

Sponsored by the US Department of State, the Fulbright Program is a program of competitive, merit-based grants for international educational exchange for students, scholars, professionals, scientists and artists, founded by US Senator J. William Fulbright. The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious awards programs worldwide, operating in over 155 countries. Forty-three Fulbright alumni have won Nobel Prizes, including two in 2010.

IIRG's Centre

The University of Sunderland has the largest glass and ceramics department in Europe. The Glass & Ceramic department is housed in the National Glass Centre's landmark £17million building, adjacent to St.Peter's Campus.

The UK National Glass Centre has interesting glass shop procedures. Above is photo by Anna Liukas from Sunderland's 2010 calendar featuring shots of students at work in the hot shop.
Above, a flamework studio student pictured hard at work. photo: Anna Liukas
Apparently, the North East of England is much hotter than we were led to believe. Traveling light should be the bywords for our two intrepid scholars.

Tim and Michael will be teaching special courses at the University starting in the month of March, 2012. We are looking forward to their stories and blog photo updates of their escapades!

Nicole Puzan - In Memoriam

2011-12-12T12:31:00.010-05:00

Nicole Puzan
1983-2011
Studio Coordinator, Glass Artist, Friend

We are sorry to report that our much loved glass studio coordinator passed away yesterday morning. Only 28 years old, Nicole succumbed to a very aggressive ovarian cancer. Our Nicole was a trooper to the end, and we understand that she seemed comfortable as she passed.

Nicole was integral to the Prince George's County Courthouse public artwork sculpture.

Nicole coordinated many art projects while working in the Washington Glass Studio. Here, Nicole is cleaning a just annealed glass casting that was part of the Vanderbilt University Critical Care Tower.

Nicole celebrating the arrival of Margaret Boozer's baby in 2009 with the Dutch sweet "beschuit met muisies".

Nicole shown here plugged through the messy part of studio work.

Nicole was an instructor of classes at the Washington Glass School. Nicole is hown here with artists Cheryl Derricott and Dave Cook.

A mural based on Nicole's tattoo was painted at the Fridge Gallery in Washington, DC. in 2010.

Services will be held Saturday at 11 am at the Oakton Unitarian Universalist.

Bullseye Gallery Features Painter(ly) Glass Artists

2011-12-11T00:56:00.001-05:00

Michael Janis Observation of Signals
2011 Kilnformed glass

Jeff Wallin Kate
2008 Kilnformed glass

Bullseye Gallery - located near the Bullseye Glass Center in Portland, Oregon - has a special exhibit opening soon that focuses on artists that work.
Titled "FACTURE -Artists at the Forefront of Painterly Glass" the exhibit asks what advantages do the materials and processes found in glass provide that can’t be found in other painting media.

"FACTURE -Artists at the Forefront of Painterly Glass"

January 4 thru February 25, 2012
Bullseye Gallery, Portland, OR

Works by Michael Janis, Kari Minnick, Martha Pfanschmidt, Ted Sawyer, Abi Spring, and Jeff Wallin
Artist Reception: Wednesday, January 4, 5:30 - 7:30 pm

A panel discussion will be held with the artists moderated by Bullseye's Michael Endo on Sunday January 8 from 2pm–4pm.

Bullseye Gallery offers contemporary art objects and experiences examining the potential and complexity of kilnformed glass. The gallery also explores glass in the built environment, inviting art into architecture through collaborations with artists, designers, architects and clients.

The gallery hosts artist lectures, panel discussions, and events which encourage dialogue about the concepts and processes driving contemporary art.

Bullseye Gallery
300 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Phone: 503.227.0222
Gallery Hours: Tues - Sat 10:00AM - 5:00PM

Winter Exhibit

2011-12-09T19:33:00.005-05:00

Works by M.L. Duffy and Debra Ruzinsky

The Washington Glass School is set up for the Open Studio and Winter Show that is held this Saturday, Dec 10. The show runs from 1 to 5 pm.
The artists and instructors have been setting up areas with some great works - The Washington Post newspaper selected the show as part of the Weekend Picks. Great image by Pete Duvall of Erwin Timmers cast recycled glass!

The Friday Weekend Section of the Washington Post.

Nancy Donnelly's cast glass woodblock

A Wall of Tim Tates!

Sean Hennessey's cast elements in front of Syl Mathis' cast glass boats

Chris Shea's fantastic sculpture.

Come on up to to the Mount Rainier studios, just across the Eastern Ave border. Next door studios like Flux Studio and Ellyn Weiss' are open!

Washington Glass School

3700 Otis Street
Mount Rainier, MD 20712

1-5 pm

December 10, 2011

New Winter 2011/2012 Glass Class Schedule

2011-12-06T14:58:00.024-05:00

Have look at the all new school schedule - some new instructors and classes to make for a warm & cozy winter schedule!
________________________________________
Class 1201- Beginner's Glass Lover's Weekend

Our most popular class, this is the fastest way to learn all aspects of warm glass in the shortest amount of time! Under the supervision of a professional glass artist you will learn the fundamentals of fusing, slumping and dimensional kiln casting. Everything from bowls and plates to sculptural objects... this is the perfect way for a beginner to learn the basics of glass... and you will leave with several very cool items! Offered 2 times in the Winter session.

Instructors: Robert Kincheloe/ Mick Coughlan
Dates: Session 1201A - Sat/Sun Jan 21/22
Session 1201B - Sat /Sun March 17/18
Time: 1pm to 5pm each day
Tuition: $300 per student (all materials included) _______________________________________________

Class 1202 - Next Step Fused Glass

OK...we hear you! Our Next Step Fused Glass expands on the
basic fused glass techniques and adds some fun extras that will
help set your work apart. You will gain a more in-depth
understanding of fused glass and the various techniques in the
creation of more complex pieces. This 3 day class focuses on
larger scale objects - plates, platters, etc, and will include working
with pattern bars, and embellishments with frit powders and decals!

Instructor: Michael Janis
Dates : 3 consecutive Sat afternoons, January 28, February 04 & 11

Time : 2 pm to 5pm each day

Tuition : $350 per student (all materials included)

__________________________________________

Class 1203- Beginning MIG Welding

Ever wondered about learning to weld? Want to impress your friends, your older brother and that cute bartender? It's easier than you think! In three evenings you will learn how to lay a bead, and handle all sorts of sharp and dangerous tools. You will be able to complete a small project and leave with lots of ideas and know-how for other projects. This class will teach you the basics of welding, metal work and design, joining, bending and finishing. And you will get dirty!

Instructor : Erwin Timmers
Dates : Wednesday evenings in February 8, 15, 22
Time : 7 pm to 9 pm
Tuition : $325 per student

________________________________________

Class 1204 - Master Class:
Painting On Glass with Bert Weiss

Led by master artist Bert Weiss, (just check who's the most

consulted guru on Warmglass.com) this three-day glass painting

technique class features multiple projects designed to give the

student a better understanding of lass painting and its enormous

potential in fused glass. Bert's techniques allow you to use vibrant

colors without worrying about glass compatibility. The course

will show you how to mix metallic oxide colorants with glass

and create oil paint like-washes.

This course is suitable for all levels of experience.

Students do not need to bring anything, all the tools and materials are

provided for the course - just wear suitable old clothes and sturdy

shoes... oh, and bring a lunch!

Bert Weiss studied traditional glass painting with Albinus Elskus

and has developed and improved his techniques for the past 40

years. Bring any questions you may have had about glass fusing;

within 10 minutes Bert should be able to troubleshoot!

Cut off sign-up date is Jan 30, 2012.

Instructor : Bert Weiss
Dates : February 18, 19, 20 (President's Day Weekend)

Time : 10am to 4pm each day

Tuition : $400 per student

________________________________________

Class 1205- Going Green

Green up your life by doing something creative to help the environment! This is an exploration into using recycled glass to make sculptural pieces, tableware, and architectural elements. We will delve into multiple techniques, including casting, fusing and slumping. Glass chemistry, coloration, and firing temperatures will be explained for each particular application. It is a fantastic way to learn aspects of any warm glass work while focusing on recycling! Once you start down the path of recycled glass, you will see more and more opportunities for experimentation around you. No prior experience is necessary - you are encouraged to bring in materials you'd like to try...and you will leave with several very cool items!

Instructor : Erwin Timmers
Dates : Wednesday evenings in March 14, 21, 28
Time : 7 pm to 9:30 pm
Tuition : $350 per student

____________________________________________
Class 1206- Open Studio - Work At Your Own Pace

Already know the basics of casting or fusing? Open Studio gives each student the opportunity to work independently in a world class studio. Tuition includes a kiln firing per session, clear base glass and colored scrap glass, use of studio tools.

Instructor : Studio Staff
Dates : Wed/Thurs/Sat afternoons (call to confirm appointment)
Time : 1pm to 5pm
Tuition : $300 for 4 sessions

To purchase class online - scroll thru PayPal listing below:

James Renwick Alliance Hosts Review Of Safeway Bethesda Public Art

2011-11-28T14:46:00.009-05:00

The James Renwick Alliance is hosting a presentation of how Safeway supermarkets support American Craft with their new public art project in Bethsda, MD. The process and inspirations of the artwork will be reviewed in the talk. Find out about tickets by clicking on the link!

The JRA is an independent national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing scholarship and education on contemporary American craft, to supporting activities directed toward this purpose, and to encouraging connoisseurship and collecting. The Alliance assists the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Renwick Gallery in adding to its permanent collection of American craft of artistic significance and superior workmanship, supports scholarly research in contemporary American craft, sponsors public educational activities, and pursues other activities in support of the studio craft movement.

More info on the event:
Ticket cost is a tax deductible nonrefundable contribution of $15 per person and space is limited. Please RSVP to the JRA office by phone or email (301.907.3888 or admin@jra.org) by 5 p.m. on Monday, December 5 by 5 p.m.

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

2011-11-23T02:57:00.001-05:00

Tim Tate's cast glass elements.

Happy Thanksgiving From All Us Turkeys Here At Washington Glass School!

Mark Your Calendars! Winter Sculpture Show Dec 10

2011-11-21T13:40:00.017-05:00

Cast Recycled Glass sculpture by Erwin Timmers

Cast glass boats by Syl Mathis

The Washington Glass School presents its 10^th annual Winter Sculpture Show and Holiday Open House, featuring works by artists and instructors of the Washington Glass School.

Some of the region’s leading mixed media sculptors and artists work from the studios on the edge of DC, and artwork both large and small will be on sale.

Fused Glass Panel Sculpture by Michael Janis

Glass and Steel sculpture by m l duffy

This event is more than an art open house – its an experience!

Next-door’s Flux Studios and Ellyn Weiss Studio will also be open on the day. Check out what’s happening in THE Creative Arts Center of the DC area!

Mixed media sculpture by Tim Tate

Cast Glass by Debra Ruzinsky

Washington Glass School Winter Sculpture Show

1pm – 5 pm

Saturday, Dec 10, 2011

Washington Glass School, 3700 Otis Street, Mount Rainier, MD 20712

202.744.8222

Call for Entries: Prince Georges County Artists

2011-11-15T11:03:00.002-05:00

Call For Entries

Memories from All Directions: an Exhibition of Prince George's County Artists

Lowe House Office Building, Prince George's Delegation Area, Annapolis, MD.
January 11 - April 9, 2012
The Prince George's Department of Parks and Recreation, Arts and Cultural Heritage Division, in partnership with the Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council, is pleased to announces Memories from All Directions, this year's exhibition of Prince George's County artists in the Lowe House Office building in Annapolis, during the Maryland General Assembly/ the Legislative Session.
Memories define much about who we are. Memories can also define places, culture, and how we see ourselves as a community. Our individual memories influence how we interact in our shared space, and our shared memories influence the directions we take to shape our towns, our county, and our state. Memories from All Directions gives us an opportunity to reflect upon all of these things by asking artist to present artwork related to memories, as they define it. As we and our legislative leaders come together to make important decisions to shape our future, this exhibition celebrates Prince George's County art and artists as well as art's unique ability to express the experiences that bring us all together.

APPLICATION DEADLINE - December 10, 2011
All submissions must be received by 4:00pm

DATES

Deadline for receipt of entries: December 10
Notification of selected works: December 17
*All notifications will be sent by email.
Artwork drop-off period: January 2 - 7
Exhibition Opens: Week of January 11
Opening Reception: Monday, January 23
Exhibition closes: April 13
Artwork pick-up period: April 16-29

For more info and link to prospectus PDF - click HERE

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact: Phil Davis, Assistant Director, Brentwood Arts Exchange phil.davis@pgparks.com tel. 301-277-2863

Making Functional Art From Recycled Materials Class

2011-11-14T11:18:00.014-05:00

The Eco-Tables class- where the students create the tables using recycled materials (both reclaimed steel & glass) just completed - here are some photos from the class!

The class first creating the table-tops, working with salvaged and recycled float glass.

After fusing the recycled glass, the tops were coldworked and made smooth.

Erwin Timmers - DC's leading "Green-artist" outlines what is required to make the metal work support. Some students are overwhelmed.

Erwin outlines step-by-step the procedures to cut, weld and grind smooth the steelwork.

Some of the students were stylin' in the welding helmets and green welding jackets.

Teaching Assistant Laurie Brown supervises the metal working.

Soon, tables are marching out from the coldshop.

The students - some who have never cut glass or welded before - are amazed at their artwork and celebrate their progress. "What's next?" is on each student's mind.
The new class schedule is due out soon - Keep posted for the listing!

Robert Kincheloe's Work at Adam Lister Gallery

2011-11-11T23:11:00.000-05:00

Based on the idea that all big things are ultimately composed of smaller things, Adam Lister Gallery presents a special collection of artwork that represents glimpses from the path that each artist is creating. These small works take on an intimate nature, drawing the viewer in close and giving them a more personal experience. They are components and elements of the bigger picture while functioning as clues and hints into the mind of the artist. There's a challenge that the artist faces when dealing with small scale work, it forces them to use a specific control while containing limitless concepts within a limited space. Our little Robert Kincheloe is featured in group show.

LITTLE BIG THINGS

NOV.16 - DEC.5, 2001

Gallery Reception: Wed. Nov.16, 7-9PM

John M. Adams

David Barr

Craig Hill

Robert Kincheloe

J.T. Kirkland

Tamryn McDermott

Jacobe Noonan

Adam Lister Gallery

3950 University Drive (1st floor)

Fairfax, Virginia
Contact the gallery for more info: adamlistergallery@gmail.com

USCRI Uses Art Glass for Centennial Awards

2011-11-10T16:23:00.014-05:00

The U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) celebrated their 100th anniversary at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium. Their mission is to protect the rights and address the needs of persons in forced or voluntary migration worldwide by advancing fair and humane public policy, facilitating and providing direct professional services, and promoting the full participation of migrants in community life.

In light of its milestone 100th birthday, USCRI commissioned Michael Janis of the Washington Glass Studio to create commemorative artwork for the family of President Dwight Eisenhower and the family of Senator Edward Kennedy. The USCRI event committee worked with the studio, asking that the artwork represent the respective parts of the world helped by the respective honorees. The design was envisioned to have the central figure "wrapped" by glass powder images of refugees. The glass images would be created using glass powder on flat glass, that would be kiln-formed into sculptural shapes.

Concept sketch showing President Eisenhower with refugees.

Concept outline of Senator Kennedy with refugees.

Michael Janis created imagery using his 'sgraffito' technique.

President Eisenhower and Senator Kennedy were celebrated for their work assisting refugees and immigrants in artwork made by Michael Janis of Washington Glass Studio.

To highlight the award presentation, video images of the glass artwork were broadcast on the stage during the dinner. Filmed by Lucky Dog Productions, the glass artwork was shown rotating to capture all sides of the works.

above video is the raw footage shot by Lucky Dog Productions - a bit spinny for some - it gives an idea of the artwork in 360 degrees. The final video was slowed down for the broadcast presentation.

Hosted by Cynee Simpson and Chris Spencer, the centennial gala was held at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium October 19, 2011. The black-tie event included celebrity guests and auctions to raise money for the charity organization.

Susan Eisenhower accepted USCRI's Centennial Award for her grandfather, President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Ken Leung - from our favorite TV show LOST, was a guest at the gala. Ken was a co-star on LOST, along with the USCRI Global Ambassador, Jeff Fahe y.
Susan Eisenhower & Cynne Simpson posing with the Centennial Awards for President Eisenhower & Senator Kennedy.

Wyclef Jean provided entertainment for the night at the Mellon Auditorium.

Wyclef Jean attended to support and encourage the work done by the USCRI. Mr. Jean autographed memorabilia, then energized the crowd with his singing and dancing. However, the highlight of the evening was his display of an unusual talent. Wyclef Jean played his guitar with his tongue, and didn’t miss a beat.

Soon, everyone joined in the fun - including Ken Leung showing his break-dancing finesse.

Ken Leung (aka LOST's Miles Straume) busting a move... that or he is doing his version of the spinning awards.

WGS joins all in congratulating and celebrating the USCRI's 100 years.

Report From SOFA Chicago

2011-11-09T17:31:00.026-05:00

Finally had a chance to catch my breath from a rushed viewing of the 18th Annual Sculpture Objects and Functional Art Fair (SOFA) held at Chicago's Navy Pier!.
This year's SOFA Chicago featured more than 60 international art galleries and dealers presenting museum-quality artworks and design, as well as lecture and tour series.
SOFA CHICAGO 2011 highlights included:

Maurine Littleton Gallery
The Washington, DC gallery showcased the newest works by WGS artists Michael Janis and Allegra Marquart alongside some of the "glass superstar legends" like Harvey Littleton, Therman Statom and Ginny Ruffner.

Works shown include Colin Reed, John Littleton, Kate Vogel, Harvey Littleton, Michael Janis, Therman Staom, Allegra Marquart, Ginny Ruffner and Drew Storm Graham.

Allegra Marquart's new narrative sandcarved glass panels (L) and Drew Storm Graham's wood assemblages (R).

John Littleton and Kate Vogel's cast glass artwork.

Michael Janis' painterly fused glass artwork

Jane Sauer Gallery
The Santa Fe gallery had a strong mix of artists in a variety of media.

Tim Tate's delicious new works - cast glass sweets! Tim also featured framed hand-colored prints of his imagery.

Tim Tate's video reliquaries are always a show favorite.

Hawk Gallery
The Cincinnati gallery had a stunning solo show of cast glass work by Bertil Vallien.

A stunning cross-section of Bertil's works.

Bertil's ladle cast glass encases beautiful imagery.

Bullseye Gallery
The Portland, OR based gallery featured the new directions kilnformed glass is heading.

April Surgent's cameo-etched work.

Silvia Levensen's fun sculpture and fused glass panels.

Catherine Newell's new fused glass panels.

Heller Gallery
Always a must-see, the New York gallery had some instant favorites.

Susan Taylor Glasgow's "Communal Nest" -a large-scale assemblage consisting of glass twigs, real branches, a chair and a glass pillow. The work was built with help from the community and from artists around the world, all of whom contributed glass twigs to this "collective" nest. But despite these and other it-takes-a-village aspects -- Susan's work ultimately suggests a rather ironic view of home.

Susan Taylor Glasgow's visions of domestic bliss.
Steffan Dam's glass recalls scientific analysis.

Marc Petrovic's roll-up process and stunning technique and aesthetic continues to amaze and impress.

Beth Lipman's table of fish.

Duane Reed Gallery
The St Louis gallery featured some glass beauties.

Kari Russell Pool's beautiful flameworked sculptures.

Cassandra Blackmore's abstract glass panels.

Some works that also caught our eye:

Janis Miltenberger's flamework sculpture at Thomas Riley Galleries.

Australia's Beaver Gallery showed Jeremy Lepisto's crate series.

Wexler Gallery showed how the simplicity of Sydney Cash's work plays with the light.

Blue Rain showed the fun and beautiful work by Rik Allen. Here a glass spaceman floats amongst the glass.

The annual show was a great time to see the best of media-based artwork and meet some of the artists I've only read about.
Many thanks to Betty Py for the photos - for more of her images of glass art shown at SOFA - CLICK HERE to jump to the Flickr site she set up for Washington Glass School.

Jeffery Zimmer's New Work @ Philly Museum Of Art Craft Show

2011-10-27T21:33:00.010-04:00

Jeff Zimmer, We Were All Wrong (The Home of My Father), 2011.
Multiple layers of enameled and sandblasted glass in lightbox.
22 x 25 x 7"

The 35th annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show will be held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

WGS alumn Jeff Zimmer will be one of the artists featured by Scotland in the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show Nov 10 – 13, 2011. Jeff will be exhibiting his exquisite series "Whitewash". This past summer, Jeff's work was a favorite of Washington Post arts critic Michael O'Sullivan in his review of the LongView Gallery show of Washington Glass School artists.

Said Jeff of his new works: "Whitewash depicts a series of landscapes, both urban and rural, American and Scottish, under a blanket of snow -- a metaphor for the way we, as individuals and nations, ‘whitewash’ our pasts. The luminous, internally illuminated landscapes, placed in thick frames, contrast the untrammelled snow with the barely-concealed debris which remains, only partially hidden from view."

Jeff Zimmer, We Were All Wrong (The Writing on the Wall) 2011
Multiple layers of enamelled and sandblasted glass in lightbox
18 x 15 x 6"

The Glass Quarterly blog gives a nice cover to Jeff's work online - click HERE to jump to Ruth Reader's article.

Click HERE to jump to more of Jeff's series "Whitewash" (every piece is stunning, by the way).

SOFA Chicago Opens Nov 3

2011-10-25T11:38:00.005-04:00

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The 18th Annual Sculpture Objects and Functional Art Fair, SOFA CHICAGO 2011, enjoys the prestigious position of being the largest and longest continually running international gallery-based art fair in Chicago. SOFA CHICAGO 2011 runs at Navy Pier Nov. 4 – Nov. 6. The SOFA CHICAGO and Intuit Show’s joint Opening Night Preview on Thursday, Nov. 3.

SOFA features more than 60 international art galleries and dealers presenting museum-quality art and design. SOFA galleries bridge a wide range of cultures, art movements and historical periods.

Our Tim Tate, Allegra Marquart and Michael Janis are representing in the Windy City.

Allegra Marquart and Michael Janis will be shown at Maurine Littleton Gallery - space #720

Maurine Littleton Gallery at SOFA Chicago 2010

Tim Tate will be featured at Jane Sauer Gallery - space # 307.
Tim's new work features a new video & glass and a non-video series.

Tim Tate
The Silent Ode
blown & cast glass, original video, electronics

Below is the video that is incorporated into the artwork - where the singer is silently performing Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" - which is how Beethoven would have experienced the song - as he became deaf. The cast glass hands are the words to the song in sign language.

Untitled from Tim Tate on Vimeo.

Chrysler Museum of Art Opens New Glass Studio Nov 2

2011-10-24T11:41:00.006-04:00

The Chrysler Museum of Art, is getting ready to open its new 7,000 square foot glass studio.
Artist Charlotte Potter has been hired to helm the new studio as it gets off the ground, scheduled to open to the public Novermber 2nd.

The addition of the Glass Studio enhances the Museum’s stature as one of the top three museums in the United States with an art glass focus. The reality of the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio was sparked from the interest and support base demonstrated during Art of Glass 2 - the region’s blockbuster glass exhibition in 2009 featured the Chrysler Museum, Virginia Arts Festival and the Contemporary Art Center of Virginia as major partners.

“The Glass Studio will allow our visitors to experience glassmaking and be involved in every step of the process,” says Bill Hennessey, the Museum’s director. “We anticipate this will draw people to the region to learn about glass, meet visiting glass artists and tour our collection. We expect this to be a significant educational component for the region—one that will allow us to further strengthen our partnerships with groups such as Tidewater Community College and the Governor’s School for the Arts. With more than a third of our 35,000-object collection devoted to glass, this is clearly a strong suit for the Chrysler. This Glass Studio will bring these works of art to life.”

Chrysler Museum of Art
245 West Olney Road
Norfolk, Virginia 23510

DC's SEED Charter School: Come to Washington Glass School & Learn About Sins

2011-10-20T08:20:00.017-04:00

The SEED School of Washington, DC

The SEED school of Washington DC is a public charter boarding school whose mission is "to provide an outstanding intensive educational program that prepares children ... for success in college." This past week, students from the school came to the Washington Glass School for a one-day hands-on class that mixed art, history, chemistry, mathematics and physics.

The students worked at creating bas-relief cast glass artwork that related to "The Seven Deadly Sins" - which, here at the Washington Glass School, is one subject we know all about. The dry plaster casting - that is. Tim Tate and Marc Petrovic did do a collaborative mixed media glass sculpture on the Seven Deadly Sins, and, as we all know, Tim is the devil - so who better to seek advice?

Not quite sure where a mermaid fits into the 7 Deadly Sins...perhaps its not a mermaid but a Siren (Lust)? or is it "check out my awesome tail" (Pride)?

Erwin Timmers points out the obvious.

The class had a great time creating imagery in plaster that glass would be formed into as bas-relief.
The SEED school arts instructor, Kamala Subramanian said later: "It is not easy to maintain the attention, much less excite teenager students today, where the most exciting things, to me, appear boring to them. You all have earned an A+ in my book of field trips and art experiences!"

So there! The Washington Glass School got its first A+!

Safeway Bethesda Opens In Grand Style

2011-10-13T15:03:00.020-04:00

Safeway Bethesda located at Bradley Boulevard and Arlington Road on Wednesday night.

The Safeway Bethesda supermarket - that features Safeway's first public art project - celebrated its grand opening with a lavish gala that featured bands, celebrity chefs, public officials, television celebrities, and most importantly, artwork.

Safeway Bethesda Bradley Avenue façade. Comments on the building artwork include one that "Safeway's kundalini has risen"

The process the Washington Glass Studio employed for the creation of the bas-relief artwork walls made from glass salvaged from the original supermarket building (1956- 2010) has been documented in a number of previous postings, including the installation of the artwork (and time-lapse imagery of the building construction).

Special lighting emphasizes the dry stack stonework.

The opening was a great vernissage - in a supermarket. (By the way, walking thru the freezer section of a supermarket, while listening to a live jazz combo performing one aisle over & gourmet appetizers made by guest celebrity chefs, and being offered fine champagne by waiters is a surreal experience - all cool, but very unusual.)

Champagne?... why yes, thanks...

Why is that an ICE sculpture?... It should be glass.

Jazz performed amongst the seasonal goods.

One of the cool event accouterments was the carved pumpkin displays. The artist based the pumpkin carvings on the building's cast glass panels - a nice switch on the traditional glass pumpkins.
The night also featured artwork displays; the work by sculptor Judy Sutton Moore was exhibited on the staircase, and work by the Washington Glass School was featured in the rotunda.

Featured artists: Washington Glass School

WUSA - channel 9 news anchor Andrea Roane was the master of ceremonies.

Andrea received a gift of one of the WGS cast glass tile squares, and showed the artwork the next morning during her broadcast.

Project data:
Client: Safeway Inc.
Architect: Rounds Vanduzer
Builder: Roche Constructors
Completion: Oct 2011
Artwork team: Erwin Timmers, Michael Janis, Tim Tate, M L Duffy, Chris Duffy, Robert Kincheloe, Evan Morgan, Susan Lomuto, George Anderton.

New DC Commision on the Arts & Humanities Exec Director

2011-10-12T09:29:00.003-04:00

The D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities has named a new executive director - Lionell Thomas.

Lionell Thomas at Prince Georges County event "Poetry Between the Lines".

Thomas, who most recently served as Executive Director for the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council, replaces outgoing Interim Director, Ayris Scales.

“As Chair of the Commission on the Arts and Humanities, I am thrilled to welcome Lionell Thomas as our new Executive Director,” said Judith Terra, Chair of the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities. “He brings great knowledge of the city and the Commission. He brings great vision for the future of the city, as well as dignity and presence to the office. With his leadership, Washington will be a world-class cultural city.”

Prior to his position with Prince George’s County, Mr. Thomas served with the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities for 22 years in several capacities, eventually serving as the Deputy Director and Interim Director.

"I am delighted to be returning home to the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, " said Lionell Thomas. "I am looking forward to working together with Mayor Gray’s administration and the community to expand and cultivate the creative energy of our great city on behalf of the residents and visitors to Washington, DC."

Mr. Thomas received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh. A native of Washington, D.C., Mr. Thomas has received various accolades locally and nationally for his creative approaches to arts management and programming. He has also served on a number of state grants panels as a reviewer and site evaluator.

Of all his accomplishments, Mr. Thomas is most proud of the initiatives developed to bring arts programs to underserved communities; many of which remain staples of the District of Columbia’s arts community today.

Hamiltonian SOFAlab @ Washington Glass School

2011-10-10T13:21:00.011-04:00

Hamiltonian SOFAlab meeting at L- R
Helen Frederick, Erwin Timmers, Paul So, Caroline Wellberry, Shanti Norris

Hamiltonian Artists seeks to broaden the cultural dialogue within our modern community. One of the arts program to further the dialogue is SOFAlab - where scientists and artists are paired for collaborative interaction. SOFAlab asks: How and where do art and science – two seemingly disparate disciplines of intellectual inquiry – overlap? And, at that confluence, what can practitioners of both disciplines learn to expand their unique fields of knowledge and to affect consciousness?

Hamiltonian Artists, Smith Farm Center for the Healing Arts and George Mason University have been furthering the dialog thru a series of "laboratory/studio" exchanges in which artists are be invited to observe and participate in laboratory sessions and scientists will be invited into artist's studios for collaborative projects. Exploring similarities and differences in how scientists and artists use experimentation and visualization in their search for larger truths and making sense of the universe. The leader in recycled glass artwork, Erwin Timmers is collaborating with scientist Caroline Wellberry in the latest project.

Funding for this program was provided by:

Center for Consciousness and Transformation, George Mason University

with support from Hamiltonian Artists, Smith Farm Center for Healing and the Arts,

and George Mason University School of Art & Design.

All Welcome Mick Coughlan!

2011-10-08T16:17:00.007-04:00

Please join all of us at Washington Glass School in welcoming Mick Coughlan as the new Studio Manager/ Production Assistant.

Mick Coughlan

Mick had been working in the props department of the Shakespeare Theater Company, on such shows as Taming of the Shrew, Antony and Cleopatra, King Lear, Henry V, The Merchant of Venice, Julius Caesar, and many other productions; so clearly, he is familiar with drama - which makes him well suited for the glass school.

Over the next couple of months, Mick will work closely with Rob Kincheloe, for the transfer of power, as Rob sets up his own studio across the Potomac in Prince William County, VA.

Welcome aboard Mick!