Several years
ago, after having worked with, and teaching, stained glass, my husband
and I decided to learn the art of glass fusing. We enrolled in a
short beginner's fusing class, bought several books and a small
kiln. We then started reading and practicing our newly found art
form.
During the
early days we made a few costly mistakes, some of which could have
been avoided by exercising a little patience. We quickly learned
that extremely hot glass and cool air are not compatible.
From our early
beginnings in fusing glass, we have since learned to exercise patience.
We also incorporate several different techniques into our projects,
such as sandblasting, multiple firings, the use of fiber paper and
various specialty glasses. The various colors and textures in our
projects (which we believe are very unique) are created solely with
glass, and do not involve the use of any paints or enamels.
We have since
moved to Florence, where we now work on our art projects in our
home studio. Our aim is to create objects of beauty that we hope
others will enjoy as much as we enjoy creating them. Although we
are normally in agreement as to colors and pattern designs, we sometimes
differ in opinion. On those occasions we find our differences seem
to compliment the overall result. My husband and I strive for originality
and realism in our projects and we originate all our own designs.
Although our art may be functional, its main purpose is to be visually
enjoyed.