Jennifer Lynn Farrar Glass Artist

Glass Feathers, kindergarten students....one thing leads to another...

2012-01-24T07:53:00.002-06:00

I made this glass feather mobile for my sister on her birthday this past year. This mobile is made of glass feathers, tied with leather to a deer antler. The deer antler came from Ely, Nevada. She lives in Redding, California and teaches at the Happy Valley Primary School in Anderson, California. Her class is full of curious and creative kindergarten students. After teaching a lesson on art and what Artist's do, she invited me to come to her class and visit with her students.

Visiting the children at the Happy Valley Primary School in Anderson, California.

2012-01-23T10:04:00.001-06:00

This photo shows Ronnie and I looking at the glass feathers hanging in the window. He is just one of the new friends I met at the Happy Valley Primary School. After we looked at glass feathers hanging in the window, my Mom and I helped all the children paint paper feathers. We used water color paint. The students painted the feathers in colors of blue, teal, pink, purple, lime green, orange, yellow, green and magenta.

All the glass feathers were tied with leather straps to three Crepe Myrtle branches. Each student got to choose a feather they liked while my sister took photos. Willow was picking a feather she liked.

Ezra was picking out a feather he liked. I had fun meeting all my new friends.

Looking at the glass feathers and painting.

2012-01-23T10:01:00.001-06:00

Madisyn was looking at the red feathers up at the top.

Chance liked the blue feather with lots of glass beads on it.

We used bright water color paints to paint the feathers. Each student painted three large feathers. I thought all my new friends behaved really well. Everyone shared the paintbrushes and the paint. My sister, Kim cut out all the feathers and will tie them together in a larger display.

Looking at more feathers.

2012-01-23T09:56:00.002-06:00

This is Scotty, we both liked this feather. When he stepped up on the chair for the photo, I growled like the Green Hulk and it made him smile.

Esymrna liked a feather at the very bottom.

Taedrum picked out a feather that had a glass bead in the center. The glass bead was a teal color with black stripes.

Mason picked out a feather that was a blue color.

Ronnie liked a blue feather too.

This was so much fun.

2012-01-23T09:52:00.002-06:00

I got to set near Brandon and watch him pick the colors and paint his feathers. He did a good job.

My Mom was helping Chance paint his feathers.

Fahm liked pink, purple, blue and yellow.

My Mom and Dad are both very creative. My Mom has always enjoyed working with oils. She has painted several beautiful paintings over the years. She enjoyed working with all the students and help them paint. In this photo, she is helping Madison paint her feathers.

This is another new friend I met. Her name is Bella and she was showing me the feather she liked the best.

Mariah liked the feather that was white and gold. The feather had glass beads on it too. I remember she and I smiled a lot at each other.

Glass Christmas boxes heading to California

2012-01-05T17:19:00.000-06:00

A year ago I was commissioned to create four Christmas trees built from broken wine bottles and porcelin stands. Two customers have requested more glass boxes to go under their trees for next year. These trees sell for $250.00 and each glass box cost $10.00. This price includes tax, shipping and handling. Order one for yourself for Christmas next year!

As you can see, the gift boxes fit in your hand. This is a tall yellow box, with glass beads and cross attached.

This is a small green one, with a piece of colorful pottery attached to the top. Solder lines were painted with a black patina.

The photo above shows a close up of the top of one of the trees. The photo below shows the additional four new glass boxes that will be sent to to California to go under the tree next year.

This glass gift box is heading to Colorado...

2012-01-05T17:06:00.000-06:00

The green glass gift box is heading to Divide, Colorado. It will go under a glass Christmas Tree for next year. Shades of green glass were soldered. Black patina was painted over the solder lines. A piece of colorful pottery was added to the top with a yellow glass bead. Yellow glass beads were added on the bottom of the box.

Had so much fun with this project....

2011-12-28T10:34:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas and wishing everyone a prosperous New Year... I have had lots of new experiences this past year and met interesting people through my Glass Art. 2011 is ending with yet another new and interesting project. Painting a pair of Dansko Clogs!

I got into a discussion with a colleague of mine and discovered we shared a common interest in art and Dansko Clogs. When she saw my painted travel carry-on bag, and learned of the Glass Art I created she asked me if I would consider painting a pair of her Mary Jane Black Danskos. I was so excited and told her this might be the transition from working with glass to painting that I had been looking for. It is the very first pair of I have painted. I really had fun with this project, it was relaxing and I hope to paint more.

I'm taking orders for mouse pads...interested?

2011-12-23T08:00:00.003-06:00

"MEXICAN BULL"

owned by Johanna Sota, Puerto Rico

This beautiful design has been re-created in a mouse pad, an item most of us use everyday.

(see photo below)

Too late for Christmas but still an awesome gift for anytime of the new year. While you work...you can see, be near and feel the energy of the
bright-big-bold colors....signed by the Artist: $15.00

My new Business Cards...

2011-12-21T13:32:00.004-06:00

My new business cards finally came in and I am really pleased how they turned out. I used an original image of a Glass Art Design I created this past year.
"Mexican Bull" now resides in Puerto Rico. This photo also shows my new mouse pad.
I believe these cards will make a big impact.

Open House at the Adelante Gallery

2011-12-17T07:44:00.003-06:00

The Adelante Gallery in Oklahoma City's, Paseo District is having a Christmas Open House, with live Artist's demonstrations. Cynthia Wolfe is the owner of this awesome gallery. Glass angels are for sale as well as my "Longhorn Steer" glass design. Bring your wallet and check out this creative and inspiring place.

Click on the link below for more information.

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs067/1102356560014/archive/1108956425744.html

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2011-12-12T11:09:00.003-06:00

Thanks to all of you who have supported my art journey. Being an Artist is my passion, my testimony. My way of giving back is selling my art at a discounted price - only for the month of December. Check it out at "The Small Show". Located at Benedict Street Marketplace in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

The Small Show is a collection of my glass art and artwork from the late Jack Hill Collection. Jack Hill was a prominent painter in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and won many awards. Whats the connection? I met Jack when I joined the "Your Eye Gallery" on Paseo about five years ago. I later met Jim, Jack's son who is my boyfriend. This was a combined effort to honor Jack at this time.

Setting up...

Paula, she and her husband own the Resturant and Market. I am thankful to have met her and grateful for the opportunity.

Crosses SOLD at The Small Show!

2011-12-07T06:17:00.001-06:00

Purple and lavender Cross. Patterned plates with various designs were broken to create this cross. Lavender procelin flower soldered near the center, purple, lavender and peach glass.

Two orange crosses. Vintage orange vase was broken to make these shapes. Orange confetti glass, muted gold, orange and auburn glass gems attached. Black patina outline each glass shape. The customer could not decide between these two, so I showed them both to her. She chose the cross below.

Terra Cotta Cross. Red, and sienna colored glass used with red gems and terra cotta chips from Taos, New Mexico were added. Glass gems with "cross" image attached, black patina added to all solder lines.

Small Commission going to California

2011-12-04T07:36:00.001-06:00

This customer liked the colors of Autumn brown, watermelon pick, and turquoise.

These two photos show how bright colors are when there is light reflected back through them.

This photo below, shows what the colors look like in daylight.

The "Small Show"

2011-11-27T13:00:00.001-06:00

The "Small Show". A small collection of small art at small prices! Just for the month of December only! The show includes paintings from the Jack Hill collection as well as brand new work from myself. Paintings, mirrors and crosses create a diverse and rich display.

The "Small Show" will be on display at the Benedict Street Marketplace, located in Shawnee, Oklahoma. The restaurant is the best in town, featuring Angus cut beef, buffalo, fresh baked bread and several fresh and natural entrees that are scrumptious everytime.

Feather Mobile going to California...

2011-11-27T12:57:00.001-06:00

I created this glass feather mobile for my sister on her birthday. I have hung glass feathers as a mobile before but not from a deer antler. I had to keep moving the feathers to the right point in order for it to balance flat.

I found some glass beads that were similar in color to the glass feathers. These worked well. I added a strong of various colors of glass beads just to ad dimension and more diversity. The antler came from an Artist just east of Ely, Nevada. He works mainly with deer antlers, creating tables, lamps, and other items for the western style home.

Angels flying to the (FIS) Fidelity Information Services Workplace Art Festival

2011-11-21T21:03:00.001-06:00

Angels heading North to the (FIS) Fidelity Information Services Arts Festival, held December 2nd in Oklahoma City. All their wings are made with broken plates, or cut glass. Accents are glass gems, vintage jewelry. All for sale for under $30.00.

A view on this inside of the Adelante Gallery and Teahouse

2011-10-29T17:49:00.001-05:00

Cynthia and her Daugher, Alyecia manage this gallery. It is a beautiful place.

They sell scrumptious tea, posters, cards and more. You can see the beautiful bar that Cynthia's daughter created herself.

Jim and Cynthia, enjoying some tea.

Ashland Hillsides #1 ans #2 installed !!!

2011-10-29T17:46:00.002-05:00

Ashland Hillsides #1 and #2

2011-10-07T15:15:00.001-05:00

These two "Landscape" panels called, "Ashland Hillsides" #1 and #2. Each panel is 12 inches wide and 24 inches tall. The colors are shades of purples, violets, peach, greens, and ice blues. These panels were photographed standing upright in my window on a cloudy day around 3:00pm. Stained glass looks better in person, but these photos show the effects of different levels of light and how the colors change.

A close up photo shows the colors as well as the geodes and nodules I built within the design.

This is a photo taken in the evening with artificial light. You can see the white spaces, that was before I layered in the dark purple glass.

The two panels lay flat against a white background.

Gold and Teal Cross

2011-10-04T10:21:00.001-05:00

This gold and teal cross is 27 inches long and 17 inches wide. It was created with shades of teal colored traditional glass, antique plates, filigree from an antique lamp, glass gems with a porcelain yellow rose in the center.

Surrounding the yellow rose are porcelain green and sage colored leaves. All silver solder lines were stained with a black patina.

In these two photos you can see what kind of work goes behind making something so beautiful. In the top photo I wrote notes out to the side which were ideas that I thought would improve the overall balance and design. The photo below shows the cross being assembled. It can be a messy process especially when you start working with the flux, which is what I had just finished doing in this photo.

Angels, angels, and more angels....

2011-10-04T10:17:00.001-05:00

These primitive looking glass angels are all handmade, and no two are alike. They are made from flat cut glass, broken plates serve as their wings, and some are holding church hymnals. They are adorned with vintage jewelry with a silver wire attached for hanging. The wire is threaded with assorted glass beads that match each angel.

Sage, gold and orange mirrors.

2011-10-04T10:11:00.001-05:00

This is a collection of five mirrors. All surrounded with shades of teal and burnt orange. Accents are copper colored glass gems, rustic vintage plates, sage colored small geodes and textured broken glass from a vase.

Red Mirrors

2011-10-04T10:06:00.001-05:00

Three interesting bright red mirror designs - perfect for the holidays or anytime. Handcrafted with broken glass, metallic red glass, glass beads and gems.

Yellow Mirrors

2011-10-04T10:00:00.001-05:00

These mirrors were made with yellow spectrum glass. I added a diverse selection of embellishments to each one. This includes porcelain flowers, glass gems with various designs reflecting from underneath, broken lime green pottery leaves, and vintage plates and vases.

September Edition - Art Article - Check it out!

2011-09-26T10:42:00.003-05:00

Please click on this link to read the story of my life and art in the latest edition of the Shawnee Outlook. http://www.shawneeoutlook.com/ Thanks to the team at the Shawnee Outlook Magazine as well as to Tina Julich for writing such a great article.

Once you have clicked on the link above, then click on the cover of the September Edition. From there you can electronically turn the pages to find a picture of my Glass Cow Skull in the index as well as my article and more pictures of my art and Schoolbus art studio.

Angels heading to Puerto Rico!!!

2011-09-23T13:16:00.001-05:00

All of these handmade colorful angels are heading to Puerto Rico. A client has ordered them for her Christmas Tree. There is no one angel that is alike.

Thank you Ms. Johanna!!

"Ode to Georgia" - Lifesize Glass Cow Skull

2011-09-20T15:21:00.000-05:00

Modeled this design from an actual cow skull. Real horns were soldered in, lights are attached up inside the skull.

This piece of glasss art is made of cow horns, bullseye glass, glass beads, glass gems, porcelin flowers, geodes and nodules, broken pottery, feather hanging on horn. Solder lines stained with Black Patina.

Detail photos - with lights on (above), with lights off (below).

This was created in Janurary 2011.

Process/Sketches

2011-09-20T15:13:00.001-05:00

I sketch out the more realistic designs. The above photos show the design before it is cut in glass.

I start with a general design, then it takes on different shapes as I cut the design in glass. I like to embellish each work of art with found objects. In the case of "Pawnee Belle" her fringe comes from broken lampshades, Indian head nickels adorn her jacket, crushed blue glass pieces became her scarf, a chain dangles alongside the scarf. These portraits were created in 2007. "Pawnee Belle" was traded for a large handmade Commanche drum.

More recent pieces (this summer). Photo above is called, "Longhorn Steer", photo below is "Mexican Bull". This piece is sold.

Glass Portraits

2011-09-20T15:09:00.002-05:00

On display in the lobby of the Frank Lloyd Wright Art Center in Bartlesville, Ok.

"Pawnee Belle"

"Medicine Man"

"Circle of Feathers"

Abstract Buffalo

2011-09-20T15:05:00.001-05:00

Created in 2007.

Silver solder lines were later stained with a copper patina.

Start with the "eye" (auburn rhinestone) in the left center...this helps to see the shape of this animal.

2011-09-15T19:06:00.001-05:00

"Longhorn Steer" - is the name of this original glass art design. He is 20x13 inches. The composition of this design was sketched by the artist from looking at a photo image. Most of the glass used is called Spectrum glass which has subtle lines of a milky white color throughout. Colors used were shades of auburn, dark bourbon brown, sienna, honey gold, caramel and deep bright orange. He is for sale at the Adelante Gallery in Oklahoma City.

2011-09-11T10:31:00.001-05:00

"Burst of Blue"

13 inches in circumference, 3 1/2- 4 inches thick (side view).
Photo taken with no flash, lights on.

Photo taken with flash, no lights on.

I was blessed to have prosperous summer. Most of my smaller works have sold so it is time to focus on creating new things. I love the freedom to do whatever comes to my mind. In this case I wanted to attempt another "wall blossom". Wall Blossoms are what I call the flower-like designs that look like they are coming forth out from the wall. Small sparkle lights are strung up inside the deisgn. Glass sculpture by day, lighted sconce at night. It is a small but powerful accent to any room.

I like to incorporate several different objects to create a design. I used antique plates, a cornflower blue vase, cobalt blue bottle top, a turquoise and gold vase, geodes and glass gems in colors of cobalt blue and chartreuse. I soldered these broken pieces together then covered the silver solder lines with a black patina. My style is eclectic and edgy. Deliberate and mysterious. Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.

Side view of "Burst of Blue". Must see in person to fully appreciate.

SOLD: "Mexican Bull"

2011-09-07T15:59:00.000-05:00

Every now and then I like to experiment with more realistic shapes. This was sketched on paper from a photo, shapes were then cut out in glass. "Mexican Bull" was sold through the Adelante Gallery located in the historic Paseo District in Oklahoma City, OK. The client lives in Puerto Rico...so that is where this bull is heading!!!

SOLD: "Blooming Red Cactus"

2011-09-07T15:51:00.000-05:00

"Blooming Red Cactus" was created with the images of flowers blooming amongst the cactus in Sedona, AZ. This unusual piece of glass art was sold at the Walden Fine Art Gallery, in Taos, New Mexico.

The many moods of "Enchanted Garden"

2011-08-30T10:26:00.000-05:00

Nighttime inside with artificial light. The different dimensions are emphasized.

Afternoon sun, natural light, vines come alive.

Gallery photo, white background.

"Sunset Over Sage Mountains" and "Mexican Bull" at the Adelante Gallery

2011-08-21T20:57:00.000-05:00

"Mexican Bull"

2011-08-19T11:17:00.001-05:00

I was yearning to switch directions and create something more realistic in design. When I create a more realistic shape the image is defined before I start to cut the glass. When I work to create an abstract shape I am cutting the glass shapes with only a very general idea in mind and nothing else. The colors and shapes dictate the overall design.

I first created the frame with silver channel. I had saved an image I liked of this animal and sketched it out on big art paper first. I thought his long horns would fit well in this horizontal shaped frame.

I cut out all of the shapes that I believed I could cut in cold glass.

I used several various shades and textures of teal and sage. I threw in some accents of a yellowish-green color. I was liking the proportions and wished at the time I had more glass and supplies because I would love to have made a much bigger image of this animal. Three feet across and two feet wide. Someday I will.

Putting the pieces together. This shows the pieces before they are soldered together. I tried to consider darker and lighter shades. Using dark shades near his flank, thigh and underneath his horns. I used the light colors to make his back, stomach and shoulder stand out more. His body section was more abstract, but the head had to be "right on target" to make the rest of this design work.

Sunset Over Sage Mountains - Landscape Design

2011-08-15T13:54:00.000-05:00

This Landscape Design is called "Sunset over Sage Mountains". It will be on display and for sale at the Adelante Gallery at the Paseo Art District in downtown Oklahoma City. Photographing glass art is tricky. The mountains at the bottom are sage and teal colors, not blue. Some of the sloping mountains are topped with gold small glass gems which depict snow at the top of a mountain ridge.

There are five geodes and nodules in this design which came from Anderson, California. Colors in the sunset are various shades of yellow, gold and light mustard green. Filigree from an antique lamp had been soldered in for an intriguing detail.

I did not build this design with a frame. A frame can be picked out by the client or they can be hun with the silver channel around the edges. All silver solder lines were stained with a Black Patina.

You can see the shapes of the mountain ranges before I added in the sky. The colors in this photo look more teal and sage.

Special Angel on a mission.

2011-08-15T13:32:00.000-05:00

I made this for someone who is needing some encouragement. She lives in Missouri so this little Blue and Purple Angel is on a special mission. The wings came off a porcelain figure, the hymnal made of glass. Sterling silver hanging design with a purple gem inside. Black patina on the solder lines and blue dyed leather strip for hanging.

Geodes, Sage and Sunset

2011-07-30T14:36:00.002-05:00

Possibilities for the Paseo Originals Art Gallery. Located in the Paseo District. Click on this link to see more: http://www.paseooriginals.com/contactus.html

Red bullseye glass and hand mixed & spread bubble glass utilized. Sage colored leaves throughout accented with acrylic clear gems, clear glass gems. Solder stained with black patina. Three geodes and nodules added.

Abstract Crosses

2011-07-30T14:32:00.002-05:00

Black detail, burgundy and gold glass, ceramic tiles, glass gems and beads.

Silver detail, turquoise, tan, auburn glass with "Boy Cherub" in center and pieces of tan broken lampshade.

"Blue Plate" Cross. Antique blue plate with geode as center piece. Purple, red, cobalt blue and turquoise glass, glass gems and beads.

Garden Lamp and Nesting Quail Mirror

2011-07-30T14:27:00.002-05:00

Front

Top

Detail front.

Nesting Quail Mirror

Finished: "Flower Sconce" for the October 1st, 2011 Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition 12x12 Fundraiser

2011-07-28T17:53:00.003-05:00

After three years I was finally invited to submit work for the October 1st, 2011 Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition 12x12 Fundraiser held in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The 12x12 is the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's only fundraiser. It provides an evening of art by some of Oklahoma’s finest artists, delectable food and fun. Many art lovers begin or grow their art collection at this event. With 150 Oklahoma artists participating, a wide variety of styles and media are represented. Each artist submits one artwork that is twelve-by-twelve-inches or smaller.

I immediately thought of a sconce of some sort which could be lit up throughout the evening event. I was ready to work with some of my favorite colors which are shades of red, orange, fuchsia, and chartreuse. With those colors in mind, how could I not consider creating a bright bold flower. Look how it turned out and I love it! The photo below shows the sconce with no lights shining inside.

This photo shows the left view. I had broken up a big red vase at home before I left for New Mexico. I foiled most of the large chunks plus several broken pieces of a fuchsia antique plate. One of my special finds at Green's Corner in Shawnee, Ok. When I came home I cut several more pieces, then foiled and soldered each one together in the shape of a big flower. I stained the silver solder lines with a Black Patina.

I have a feeling it will sell. I also have a feeling I will want to make several more of these flower sconces but in different colors and in different types of flowers. YAY!

This is a photo showing the right side. It fits within a 12x12 space and is four inches thick at it's widest point.

Click to this link to find out more information:

http://www.ovac-ok.org/Events/events_12x12.cfm

Two windows ready to go....

2011-07-28T10:40:00.002-05:00

Thought I would finally get a picture with me holding my Glass Art.

Two windows.

Their title: "Eleven".

A visit to the Walden Gallery on Kit Carson Rd. in Taos, New Mexico

2011-07-28T10:14:00.003-05:00

Stood here a year ago. Glad to have my glass art up in this area.

Some glass art for sale at the Walden Gallery.

Standing near "Blooming Red Cactus".

Jim and Donna admiring the art from outside.

Meeting another talented artist in Red River, New Mexico

2011-07-28T09:56:00.003-05:00

This is Eukie. A talented Mosaic artist who lives and teaches in Red River. I saw her art as I was riding through on my bike in Red River. We had lots of things in common, especially our passion for creating with found objects in Mosaic or Stained Glass work.

This is Mike, Eukie's boyfriend. He is a talented musician. We listened to his music on the way home. So smooth and clear. This is his newest CD. He wrote all of the music and lyrics himself. Check it out.

Some of Eukie's Artwork

2011-07-28T09:51:00.002-05:00

This piece of art that caught my eye in the window as I rode by. This piece now hangs in my home. We traded some art so we both now have a few pieces of each others work which inspires us.

Cool skull and flowers. She cuts the glass and uses the glass originally in the window frame as her canvas. She then applies a layer of grout. Mosaic work on glass.

A paver that Eukie made.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

2011-07-28T09:45:00.002-05:00

Getting warmer in Albuquerque.

"Eleven" unwrapped.

2011-07-28T09:43:00.002-05:00

Ron and Christina finally getting to see the windows up close.

Jim helping to insert the windows in the spaces.

2011-07-28T09:34:00.002-05:00

Climbing to the top of the ladder.

Way up high. Inserting second window. Both windows fit perfectly.

Light shining through them both.

2011-07-28T09:29:00.003-05:00

What an addition to this area! Pictures just can not depict the vibrant glow these windows brought to the atmosphere of this room.

So proud.

So excited.

A view from outside their home.

2011-07-28T09:19:00.008-05:00

Can't wait to see what these look like from outside when the bedroom light is on. Just like Ron said, "Its Communty Art". As people drive by, they can see the beautiful design up high. What an accent inside the home as well as an accent outside of the home.

A photo with a flash and one without. Ron and Christina, proud owners of "Eleven". Two beautiful windows that are a one-of-a-kind glass design.

Here are some comments about the windows from those who have supported my art journey the past eleven years. They are from former customers, lovers of art, friends and family from all over the country:

"How wonderful that you have a profession that you love, it shows in your work".

"This is beautiful. It really looks good in their room. I bet the owners are happy and so are you".

"Beautiful".

"You go Sista! You have pure talent! Simply AEEEWWWSSOOOMMMEE".

"Simply gorgeous".

"Magical".

"Those are beautiful".

"Beautiful Lynn, You will have to have her send pictures after they are installed. That will make the whole room"!!!

"Hi Lynn, I see your stained glass artwork continues to wow us".

"Absolutely beautiful! The windows will be stunning in their bedroom. You're talent is a precious gift. Keep'em coming".

"Very nice".

"Great work".

"Really very beautiful".

Lynn, This is fascinating. I have been yard working all day and viewing this was "my break". I think I went over my "allowed" break time since they were so interesting to look at".

"Beautiful, I know your patrons will be absolutely thrilled. Good job".

"You go girl! Congratulations, I hope this leads to more commissions".

"The windows are beautiful. As you stated, they are really going to add to the overall richness of the room. I am in awe of your talent and so happy that you have this creative outlet".

"Beautiful work, what a talent".

Hey Jennifer Lynn. Very nice, but ours is still your best.

"Those look fabulous, Lynn. I would love to see them installed".

"Loved them, thanks for sharing and I love mine too".

"I love these pieces. Would love to see the studio sometimes. Glad you are living your artistic self - it suits you".
"Beautiful work, Lynn".
"Very beautiful".
"She will love the Color Splash".

"You just get better and better".

"These are absolutely beautiful".

"You are such a genius. See, I said I would one day I'll say, "I knew her when".

Finally finished...

2011-07-15T23:04:00.001-05:00

These photos show the two window designs completed. I put a coffee mug in the bottom right hand corner so you could see the mug in relation to the size of the windows.

These photos show the room where the windows will be installed and some colors the customer provided me as a guide. From additional photos and discussions with the customer, I went and selected several pieces of glass that she could considered for the project. From that group of glass colors the customer then chose the final colors to be used. What do you think? I believe the windows will be a rich asset to the overall look of this room.

Windows in my frontroom....

2011-07-15T22:37:00.003-05:00

Side angle photo of the windows.

Further back, photo taken about 8:30pm, light reflected from behind the glass design.

The photo below shows what the windows looked like at night. Light reflected onto the surface of the glass design.

Close up shots...

2011-07-15T22:23:00.002-05:00

These photos show close up images of both windows. Pastel colored glass gems were removed and replaced with a darker turquoise and teal colored glass gems. Smaller turquoise glass beads were added to some of the smalls spaces between glass shapes. Eleven pieces of auburn and carmel colored glass pieces were also added to the design. They used to be drinking glasses and cups but were broken up and incorporated into the design.

Cleaning process...

2011-07-15T22:19:00.004-05:00

The lighting isn't too good in this photo, but it shows some of the items I used to clean the windows. During the process of soldering and staining the solder lines I stopped every four or five of hours to clean both windows. I repeated this until I was completely done with the project. So, its safe to say that these windows have been cleaned approximately at least twenty to twenty five times. For the final phase of cleaning, I go into more detail.

I use a large tub to wash the windows in and rinse them with extremely hot water first. To get the Vaseline-like flux and patina stain off of the glass I sprinkle the glass window on both sides with Tide (dry) detergent for clothes. With as hot of water as I can stand, (using plastic gloves to protect your hands) I take a toothbrush and rub the toothbrush on every piece of glass in the design to clean the chemicals off. After several hot water rinses and the windows are dry, I use Hercules wipes (purchased at your local Lockes hardware store) and rub each piece of glass with handi-wipe.

I use Q-tips to get inside and around the edges. The last step is rubbing each piece of glass with these sham/cloth glass towels.

SOLD

2011-07-12T11:49:00.001-05:00

Eggplant Mirror - SOLD at the Walden Fine Art Gallery, In Taos, New Mexico.

SOLD - Sage and Sunset Glass Lamp also sold at the Walden Fine Art Gallery. Check out their link for more of my Glass Art and artwork by other great Artists.

http://www.waldenfineart.com/

More blue - more blue...and more sunlight at 10:15am

2011-07-11T10:11:00.002-05:00

Adding more blue: Presently - the window design has three strings of five pastel colored turquoise glass gems. To create more of an emphasis of blue in this design, three strings of five darker turquoise gems can be soldered in. Turquoise/teal small glass beads could also be considered. I taped a few of these glass gems so you could see the comparison in colors.

In both of these photos you can see the solder lines stained in the copper patina.

Morning Sun....around 8:00am

2011-07-11T07:57:00.002-05:00

Small Details

2011-07-10T14:47:00.000-05:00

Small caramel and brown striped broken glass to the upper left, auburn broken glass with clear dots to the center and ride side of this photo.

Auburn broken glass with clear dots to the left and caramel and brown stripes underneath geode.

Right Window - getting closer to being completed.

2011-07-10T14:16:00.003-05:00

I still have several steps in this process. I will close out all little gaps and lines with color and with a small paintbrush I will patina all the solder lines with a copper colored patina.

Then the cleaning process begins. You might not be able to see the transparent film that is on the glass. That is called "Flux". It has the consistency similar to petroleum jelly. All of that is completely removed. Once the windows are sparkling clean, I set them up in my own windows for a few days - so I can observe and meditate on what I have created. I may address small details until I know that the piece of artwork is complete.

Foiled....

2011-07-09T15:52:00.001-05:00

This photo shows the foiling process completed. I wrapped each piece of glass twice with copper foil to make sure there was good coverage on all edges. The bottom photo shows the second window foiled. I laid out a roll of copper foil and my wooden fid so you could see the tool and supplies I use.

This design shows strength, warmth, and beauty now - no telling what it will look like with the sunlight shining through from behind. The windows are large. I was standing on two chairs to get this shot.

This photo shows the second window without my tool and copper foil at the bottom.

SOLD!

2011-07-09T12:05:00.002-05:00

"Canyonlands" - SOLD - from the Adelante Gallery located at the Paseo District in Oklahoma City to a gentleman for his home. Sloping lines, geodes, metallic gold glass and auburn glass beads throughout. This is a simple design from my Landscape Line of glass art.

"Roswell" - another design from my Landscape Line, still for sale at this gallery. Neon colors, pink and purple geodes, erie shadows of glass soldered behind the design. Less glass pieces but they have an energy and flow. This design was inspired by my visit to the town of Roswell, New Mexico in the summer of 2010. Check out this gallery by clicking on the link below.

http://www.adelantegallery.com/

Example of the foiling process...

2011-07-09T07:46:00.000-05:00

This photo shows an example of the foiling process. Each pieces is wrapped individually, the the foil is smooth out with a wooden fid. It is time consuming but is a necessary part as this enables each piece to be soldered together.

Window design so far....

2011-07-08T13:33:00.007-05:00

I have a long way to go on these windows, but these photos show the cut glass design so far. This is the bottom layer. All of these cut pieces must be individually hand foiled and soldered. Once they are soldered together, I will add small details to the design which are glass gems, broken glass and some precious stones. The customer preferred that there not be a lot of open spaces as the primary role of the window (besides being beautiful) is to filter the sunlight for glare control.

When I first began this project - I was initially influenced by the shapes of the windows in the home. They seem to fan out from left to right. All of the glass colors chosen by the customer had a design or texture in them that ran either horizontal or parallel. In order to keep that energy flowing I made sure that each piece was cut so that the design and texture in the glass always ran horizontal.

Beginning with the darkest shade of amber....

2011-07-08T13:27:00.009-05:00

Lots of amber needed to be in the base layer of this design to create the main color hue the customer is wanting. However one must be careful to not use too much of the base color or make the shapes too big because the overall look would be too heavy and the design might appear too dark.

You can see the seven geodes and nodules that will be in the window designs. These were purchased at a Rock and Mineral Show in Anderson, California. In the photos - you can see how I am trying to connect the different shapes in the center so your eye will smoothly follow the design into the next window. It was important for me to work on these windows simultaneously, working from left to right.

Adding in the next lighter color of amber glass....

2011-07-08T13:02:00.004-05:00

This was the next lightest shade of amber. In this initial phase I am still working to create a solid medium amber base to the window design. This can be done by adding in lighter shades and adding other colors that compliment and warm up the entire look.

Adding in the smooth yellow glass with cloudy streaks running through...

2011-07-08T12:25:00.002-05:00

This is a beautiful color. By this time I am beginning to add the lighter shades of color to the design. I cut large shapes at first but decided to make them smaller and add a textured yellow piece of glass to some of the yellow pieces.

Adding in the textured yellow glass.

2011-07-08T12:20:00.006-05:00

I did not use much of this yellow glass, (customer's request) but we both agreed that it would add texture to the design and it surely did. I only added three yellow shapes to each window but partnered them with the customer's favorite color which was a lighter shade of this yellow glass.

You can see the small objects above the window that I will be layering in during the last phase of the design.

Can you see the design getting warmer and warmer? I added eleven cut shapes of blue to each window and eleven cut shapes of a darker amber color for accent and "pop".

More photos of the first layer of the window design.

2011-07-08T12:04:00.003-05:00

I wish I could hold the windows up against the light to see the radiant warm colors - but for now, they have to lay flat until I get the glass soldered into the frame.

Imagine adding the small found objects and dark lines that will outline each cut shape in the window design.

Cut shaped - ready to be foiled with copper foiling.

2011-07-08T11:53:00.004-05:00

I was losing light by the time these photos were taken but the photos still show the bottom layer of cut glass.

The design continues to change ever slightly - but this is the general design in the photo above. The customer is drawn to the number "11". Below I was experimenting with adding a sloping line to the design by adding glass gems. Each long sloping line had 11 glass gems in each string. I am not sure yet if I will permanently attach the glass gems - but they do add a "flowing energy" to the design.

Gotta take time to smell the roses.....celebrating "Happy America Day"

2011-07-05T11:06:00.000-05:00

Celebrating the Fourth of July in Oklahoma. It has been so hot and dry that most local firework stands were forced to shut down because of the drought. On the Fourth of July parts of Oklahoma were drenched with heavy rainstorms which cooled the 100 degree temps back down to the 90's and also made the celebration of this holiday much safer. I love fireworks - they burst forth with so much light, sparkle, power, and celebration. Each one is different, they overlap and have different sounds and shapes. My daughter, Ryan Day took these amazing photos. Enjoy!

Red Geode Abstract

2011-06-30T12:25:00.004-05:00

This was a glass abstract design I created last year. A couple purchased this framed glass art from the Walden Fine Art Gallery in Taos, New Mexico. They enjoyed what it brought to their lives so they asked me to create another original and edgy glass art design in two windows in their home. Using this similar design and style but in different colors, shapes and accents.

Foiling the geodes and nodules and other small accents.

2011-06-30T12:22:00.002-05:00

This photo does not show the true colors of these geodes and nodules but it does show the copper foiling process I must complete on every single piece that goes into this design.

After each piece is carefully wrapped in copper foil, I use a wooden fid that has a tip on one end and a thick rounded edge at the other end. I have used this fid for at least ten years now. I have two and they are my favorite tools to use for this process.

Foiling other small accents.

2011-06-30T12:18:00.006-05:00

These are other small objects I may use in the design. The photos above and below used to be drinking glasses and cups that were broken. I use a rubber mallet to do this. When I swing the mallet I am trying to aim so that the unique design or shape of the glass can be used. In this case, I thought the little clear dots would be an intriguing detail. The photo below shows some broken pieces from two glasses that the customer provided. These pieces show other colors and lines that will also be considered. One of the most enjoyable parts of my process is adding together all different kinds of items to create one overall beautiful design.

These are some glass gems that I may add to the design. My process involves layering in the different colors and accents. These small pieces, if used would be the last layer. I won't know when or how to use them until I get to that point in the creative process. It is a fun adventure though.

Examples of color provided by the customer

2011-06-30T12:12:00.003-05:00

The photos above show the examples of color and designs in the area where the two glass windows will be. The photos below show the different shades of glass that have been chosen to add to and compliment this area of their home.

Remember - glass will always keep you guessing. When light is reflected behind and through this glass, the colors will radiate throughout an entire room. The customers envision a window with shades of warm amber tones, cream, caramel and beige reflected through the geodes and nodules with accents of teal, and cornflower blue.

The windows

2011-06-30T12:06:00.002-05:00

These are the two windows where the glass abstract design will be.

Cutting the frames.

2011-06-30T11:57:00.002-05:00

These photos show the six foot long pieces of channel I use to create the frame.

The measurements and angles must be exact. I use different tools to help me do this. When finished, the frame will be 1/16 of an inch smaller all around so that it fits easily into the two window spaces.

Two frames finished.

2011-06-30T11:52:00.004-05:00

These photos show the frames completed. Each side was carefully measured and cut. I used a miter joint on the top corners. After they were measured and cut each corner was fluxed and soldered together. These frames now define the space for me to work within. When the windows are mounted they will be secured around the edges with a thin wood trim that will cover the silver channel.

Blue Cross

2011-06-14T20:22:00.004-05:00

An eclectic but elegant design. The past few weeks I have had some extra time on my hands. I got the itch to work with glass and make something. With this extra creative energy I pulled together alot of different items that were sitting around in my studio and made this.

It is two feet tall and one foot wide (at it widest points). It is beautiful hanging in a window or hanging on a wall with proper lighting. The darker photo provides a more dramatic look. There is a crazy balanced chaos to this but it works and it was what I was feeling at the time.

I incorporated into this design the following items:

Vintage jewelry

Terra Cotta handpainted tiles

Vintage Blue and Gold painted saucers

Glass gems

White Bullseye glass

Turquoise cracked glass Vintage Lamp

Painted Blue glass flower

Porcelain glass hand with yellow flower

Crystals

"Blooming Red Cactus" or "Sea Anemone"

2011-06-14T20:08:00.004-05:00

What does it look like to you?

I bought a couple of giant red/orange vases that had a bumpy texture to the thick glass. I broke them and put the shapes together that made the most sense and this is what happened. I had a desore to get my hands going, get my head and heart back in the glass and awaken my imaginative side. I found the glass flowers a few days after I started the process in a thrift store in Shawnee, Ok.

There is an expolsion of color when the light shines through it. You could put a small light inside, a candle, a string of tiny red or white Christmas lights, etc. It definitely must be placed in direct sunlight from any nearby window to reach and provide its fullest potential.

The inspiration for this piece of glass art came from my experinces in Sedona, AZ. It was spring and there were vibrant flowers blooming out of cacti. I wondered to myself how did they bloom so vibrant in such a rouch, dry, and windblown terrain? This made such an impression on me. Thriving in the midest of adversity.

"Blooming Red Cactus" or "Sea Anemone"

2011-06-14T20:03:00.003-05:00

I set it inside against a white background. It is a bold design. I like it.

Angels Galore!!!

2011-06-10T13:53:00.000-05:00

During the past four months of work travel - I would have a chance to spend a day or two at home. Glass work can be very labor intensive and time consuming. When I would get antsy to create and had little time I would create these angels. They are made with glass, broken plates or cups, silver wire and glass beads. Accents on their robes are small pieces of vintage jewelry.

All of the angels in this and photos following are for sale at The Adelante Gallery in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and The Firehouse Art Center in Norman, Oklahoma. Google them, call or pay a visit so you can see all of the other beautiful artwork on display.

Yellow and Gold Angels

2011-06-10T13:39:00.002-05:00

Pink Angels

2011-06-10T13:35:00.002-05:00

More Pink Angels

2011-06-10T13:31:00.002-05:00

and More Pink Angels

2011-06-10T13:26:00.002-05:00

Red and Yellow Gold Angels

2011-06-10T13:23:00.004-05:00

Remembering where I have been.

2011-05-28T12:39:00.006-05:00

My trusty travel bag. It looks much older and worn now. I still capture signatures or re-read old messages.

"The Magic Board"

Or maybe I should say..."The Everchanging Magic Board".

I am blessed that myself and my colleagues traveled safely to all locations and back home again. Airports are crazier than they have ever been. Add weather in the mix and you have got some real adventures on your hands. We are all "Road Warriors". (OohRah!)

But this is where I belong now.....

...me painting my bus/studio.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. I visited lots of places this spring and even attended a wedding in Springfield, Missouri. I am home now and getting ready to begin a big glass project. But before I chronicle the process on my blog, I wanted to pay homage to all the diverse places I have been this past spring. I met so many interesting people along the way. Please re-visit my blog to see how I will create two large windows to be hung in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

White Plains, New York

2011-05-28T09:09:00.010-05:00

Busy city, with lots of people and not a lot of parking space.

White Plains is supposedly the 43rd richest city in the country. It was apparent by the large number of private Golf and Country Clubs per square mile. Just like New York, lots of people and not a lot of space. Unfortunately in this wealthy community live the poorest of poor. In order to live cheap and have work many large families rent small apartments and share kitchen, bathroom and living room spaces.

This is an example of a parking ticket. I am sure you have seen one before. I saw one similar ticket attached to my front windshield at the end of a long work day. I got this by parking in the street. It was only $20 and reminded me how glad I was to be going home.

Sitting in the airport, I met Sandra a nice lady who lived in the area. She and I talked of Oprah's last show and what meaning it had to both of us.

Yreka, California and Happy Camp, California

2011-05-28T09:04:00.009-05:00

One of my favorite places to have visited this year. The mountain towns of Yreka and Happy Camp and their surrounding areas.

The beautiful Klamath River ran along side the highway which took me from Yreka into Happy Camp and back each day. It was a winding two and a half hour drive just one way.

Taking this highway back in those mountains is the small town of Happy Camp. Happy Camp got it's name because it was the first place to come and celebrate after suffering hardships from trips up the treacherous Klamath River. It was also prosperous back in the day.
Unfortunately this same beautiful area is known for historic seizures of thousands and thousands of marijuana plants in 2008 and 2010.

That still didn't stop me from enjoying the beautiful landscape.

There were places along the curvy highway to stop and take photos. Yreka and Happy Camp are located up north close to the border of Oregon. A drive from Redding, through Yreka and on into Oregon was one of the most beautiful drives I can remember. I was in awe as I drove so close to Mt. Shasta all covered with snow. From Redding to Medford, Oregon - gorgeous country all the way.

Miami, Florida

2011-05-28T09:00:00.009-05:00

Miami is something else. Flashy, crowded, rich and poor. On the way back and forth from work we saw pictures of beautiful homes with yachts outside as we drove around the city. We also saw big cruise ships lined up to take hundreds of people out to the sea and beyond. Many of those people would store their bags and hop on a bus from our hotel to take them to their boats.

Miami is a happening place. "Flashy-everything" mixed with a wide range of diversity from people, places and things.

There were also women of all ages wearing platform shoes, in all colors. They are popular I know...but in this tinsel-town it seemed everyone had a pair on. The higher the better - seeing some worn that were at least ten inches high with shorts, skirts, jeans and dresses. The shoes are so TALL. Having broken my ankle just over a year ago - they make me cringe.

Other than the hotel and program where I worked each day I happened to get out long enough to find a Whole Foods. I love shopping there.

Belmont, New York

2011-05-28T08:51:00.012-05:00

Belmont, New York just above the border of Pennsylvania. We flew into Buffalo, New York, then drove an hour and a half to get to Belmont.

Belmont is a quaint little town within the Village of Amity. Established in 1871.

Coop's, a locally owned diner where we ate each day. I will never forget the peanut butter, lettuce, tomato and salad dressing sandwich I ate there. With chips and a pickle...
it was pretty good.

The Genesse Valley River.

I won't ever forget this river because it ran swiftly alongside the highway where I was riding/bouncing along in the front seat of a tow truck. Yep, it was a tow truck like the one below. Instead of a beat up SUV on the flatbed, it was a shiny 2011 Toyota Camry. My rental car keys mysteriously disappeared one day after I came in from gathering my team's lunch orders at Coop's. I set the keys on the table and they disappeared. The keys were no where to be found. So under guidance from the Rental Car Company, since they had no extra key, I had to have the car towed to the nearest Toyota dealership, which was located across the border in Bradford, PA.

The Tow Truck guy was friendly. He was a Reservist getting ready to go for his annual two week training mission. We drove along for an hour and a half as he shared with me the history of the Genesse Valley River and Belmont. He also kept repeating, 'I've never had to tow a car just to get car keys before". I just said..."man/I know...this is crazy". "One minute you think you have life under control and the next - you're heading down along the Genesse Valley River into Pennsylvania.

Nashville, Tennessee

2011-05-28T08:37:00.002-05:00

So picturesque....

Its rare to stay at a hotel such as this...but in Nashville, Tennessee we could. Due to the type of federal work I do, there are specific criteria that each hotel must possess, including reasonable prices. In this case, the Hutton Hotel met all criteria so I enjoyed the treat. I got lost in their parking garage a few times, but they had a fresh coffee bar with muffins in the mornings and clean stylishly decorated rooms. I liked looking at the artwork displayed in the lobby before I started each work day. What a cool and classy way to promote local artists.

Shalimar, Florida

2011-05-28T08:29:00.003-05:00

Footprints in the sand.

The sunset.

Diversity of the landscape.

Bridge to forever......

This was a short trip. I was flown in and out within two days. To take advantage of where I was I walked across the street, through some hotel parking lots and saw this. I remember at the time I was experiencing some inner turmoil. Worry and angst about something I could not control. When I saw the Gulf of Mexico in all its beauty, I realized it was not a mistake for me to be here. I knew on this day I was supposed to see this. It reminded me that - 'with God, All things are possible'......

Portland, Oregon

2011-05-28T07:59:00.001-05:00

Lovely Mt. Hood. It rained a lot while here. Lots of unique pockets of art galleries, coffee shops and bike shops.

Got a chance to visit the Mt. Hood Community College. It was a very pretty campus.

Las Cruces, New Mexico

2011-05-28T07:53:00.001-05:00

Las Cruces, New Mexico. A city within a valley surrounded by mountains. I am enchanted anywhere I am if I am in New Mexico.

Los Angeles, California

2011-05-28T07:38:00.001-05:00

Hanging with my colleagues/girlfriends....

Cool buildings. This was an old but renovated hotel right near the Santa Monica Beach.

Fast cars....

Cool homes. This home caught my eye because it was designed by Salvador Dali and it was one of the homes that had original glass art in it's windows.

Hanging with Marylin at Grauman's Chinese Theatre in downtown L.A.

Winona, Mississippi

2011-05-28T07:17:00.003-05:00

I don't remember too much about this place. It was the first destination I worked four months ago. Rural, farming community, with lots of history. Sometimes I am assigned to locations I doubt I would visit again, so I make effort to link into what is unique to each community, no matter how small.