Glass Artist – Wilsonville, Oregon

I grew up in the Industrial Ceramic Industry in California. My father developed clay slip and porcelain formulas for industrial use. Corning fell in love with his formula as did doll-makers. I learned to make glazes from glass and various mediums and took classes at Corning where I was not only the only kid, but I was also the only women. I am back to my original roots and opening a kiln again and seeing what comes out is like Christmas on a weekly basis. My only regret is that my father could see me now, he would be so proud!

I combine torch work, vitrigraph, glass powder, glass pieces, and glass paint to create 5-9 layer pieces. I still do some bead work but lately I have been making more elements to embed in glass. I have a vitrigraph kiln and create much of my own cane. A vitrigraph kiln is used for the process of heating glass in a small receptacle and allowing the glass to flow out of the bottom of a pot through the bottom of the kiln. Once the glass heats to molten, it can be pulled and manipulated or twisted into unique patterns. It is a great way to create interesting embellishments to incorporate into traditional glass fusing techniques. I am also one of the regions few torch workers active in the Portland area.