A west coast artist disciplined in Fused Glass and Ceramics. I make many of my own forms for slumping glass, with a particular interest in adding textures to the colorful and geometric shapes. 

My current interest is in the period described as Mid-century modern. The art, furniture and architecture that began after World War II and continued into the early 1960s reflect a style that is marked by simplicity, clean lines and organic forms. I enjoy recreating the sense of the future produced in the past a.ka. "Retro-futurism" 

Ceramists Roger Capron and Edith Heath, Artists Josef Albers and Charley Harper, Landscape Architect Roberto Marx and Furniture designer George Nelson are all inspirations. The so-called "Googie Architecture" of the 1950s also provides stimulation for my work. 

My fused glass pieces result from combining, cut glass, frit (powdered glass) and stringers (thin glass rods). Materials are then heated to approximately 1,500 degrees in a kiln. Once cooled they are returned to the kiln , supported by a form, reheated to 1,350 degrees, and then slumped into the shape of the underlying form. Finally, the glass is then annealed: a process of heating, and then slowly cooling to relieve internal stresses that makes the glass much more durable. 

My current ceramic focus is on the Faux bois method (from the French for false wood) which refers to the artistic imitation of wood or wood grains in various media. I use specialized wood graining tools developed by my mentor, David D Gilbaugh to create the simulated wood effects. I met David through my association with the Ceramics Studio at the American Museum of Ceramic Arts (AMOCA) 

Occasionally I combine the two mediums, however the different properties of expansion and contraction in the kiln present challenges difficult to overcome. My multi-layered and textured objects are designed to reflect a retro sensibility. Objects created include wall hangings, dinnerware, jewelry and free standing art pieces. I also accept commissions, and can provide custom installations. 

Presently I am working out of my studio in Portland, OR

 

If you would like more information on purchasing any of my artwork, please send me an email. I also do custom projects and would love to discuss your needs.

E-mail: jon@spoonglass.com