WWJD? He’d Work With Glass! Jesus ❤ Glass!

Leonardo Da Vinci, Salvator Mundi, c. 1500

Leonardo Da Vinci, Salvator Mundi, c. 1500

Auction house Christies unveiled this past week its previously top secret and “most thrilling acquisition to date”: Salvator Mundi (“Savior of the World”), a formerly lost masterwork by Leonardo da Vinci that is believed to be the artist’s last painting. Made around 1500 and presumed lost until discovered early this century. Believed to be the last Leonardo in private hands, it is estimated to sell for $100 million. The oil painting, which is 25 7/8 inches by 18 inches.

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The painting originally hung in the collection of King Charles I and depicts a beatific Jesus Christ, clad in lapis lazuli robes and holding a glass orb, one hand extended skyward; it bears a certain compositional likeness to the Mona Lisa, and was painted around the same time. Of 15 Da Vinci paintings presently known to exist, Salvator Mundi is the only one in private hands.

Click HERE to jump to the news article about the Christies Auction.

Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day

National Geographic Society's Arts Ambassador Award 2011 made of cast recycled glass by the Washington Glass School.

National Geographic Society’s Arts Ambassador Award 2011 made of cast recycled glass by the Washington Glass School.

In schools up and down the country, little children are taught that a heroic Italian explorer discovered America, and various events and parades are held to celebrate the occasion. 

It has now become common knowledge amongst academics that Christopher Columbus clearly did not discover America, not least because is it impossible to discover a people and a continent that was already there and thriving with culture. thirty-nine crew members.

Columbus: heroic adventurer or wicked exploiter? It’s been said that Columbus is reall responsible for the propagation of seeds, germs and slavery into a global scale. And there is no where to hide.

The cast recycled glass globe shown above was made by our studio for the National Geographic Society as its Arts Ambassador award for 2011. The recipient that year was musican/ filmmaker Jack Johnson – and the process of making the award was featured in a detailed Glass School post.

Maryland Citizens for the Arts Professional Development Conference ArtsLAB

artslabArtsLAB is a traveling professional development conference, presented by MCA each year, in different parts of the state. ArtsLAB is a place where artists, arts professionals, advocates and more, come together to discuss current issues and concerns facing the arts sector. In addition to thrilling performances, the morning portion highlights an individual keynote speaker which exemplifies best practices for the topic at hand. The afternoon portion of the day is a mix of hands-on workshops, panel discussions, and case studies.

Who should attend ArtsLAB?

MCA encourages anyone in this sector to attend this event. There are elements for arts administrators, artists, board members, volunteers, and general arts lovers. There really is something for everyone. For more information – click HERE to jump to ArtsLAB page.

Topic: Embracing Reinvention
Date: Thursday, October 12, 2017
Time: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
LocationHarmony Hall Arts Center, Ft. Washington, Maryland

The theme of this year’s conference will be “Embracing Reinvention” and will feature presentations by, and conversations with artists and arts administrators that have found creative ways to adapt to the ever changing conditions of the arts sector. Come and add your voice to the conversation. Click HERE to register.

Cost: $15 per person, $12 per person for groups of 3 or more from one organization

“Embodiment” Exhibit at Pittsburgh Glass Center

embodiment-opening-web

The Pittsburgh Glass Center (PGC)and the 3 Rivers Glass Beadmakers (3RGB) present “embodiment,” the first jewelry and wearables exhibit at PGC.

Entries were received from around the world including Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom and the U.S. for this juried exhibition. Sixty-nine works of art were selected for exhibition including 10 artists along with several collaborators from Pittsburgh.

Laura Beth Konopinski's work commands the show.

“Captivated by the Dance of a Radiant Night” by Laura Beth Konopinski, Valerie Herrero and Jason Forck.  The work, designed for a performance, was designed to transform the wearer into a Silk Moth, displaying unconstrained feelings akin to the way a moth is attracted to the light.

Objects on display range from necklaces and wings to a crown and cape and reflect a variety of glass techniques. All of the art included in “embodiment” was chosen based on craftsmanship, aesthetic beauty, originality/creativity, and realization of the concept of embodiment meaning a tangible or visible form of a specific idea, quality or feeling.

PGC Executive Director Heather McElwee said,” The jurors looked for a diversity of art work and unusual content or untraditional subject matter, plus the use of different materials and techniques.” 

embodiment
October 6 – November 19, 2017
Opening Reception: Friday, October 6 from 6 to 9pm
pgc_horz_logo-792x600The Hodge Gallery at Pittsburgh Glass Center
5472 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206

 

Exhibiting Artists:
Carolyn Baum
Heather M. Behrendt
Jill  Benfield
Jennifer Blazina
Sabina Boehm
Deborah Carlson
Eunsuh Choi
Sarah E. Cohen
Alberto Corte
Ronit Dagan
Meredith  Edmondson
Jason Forck
Lezlie Foster
Alexandra Fresch
Nolly Gelsinger
Valerie Herrero
Nina Sam Hibler
Lisa M. Johnson
Leslie Kaplan
Floor Kaspers
Joy  L. Knepp
Natalia N. Komorowska
Laura Beth Konopinski
Lou Krueger
Sara Sally LaGrand
Ronnie Lambrou
Hethre Larivee
Stephanie Maddalena
Michael Mangiafico
Melissa A. Melan
Ben Miller
Linda Newnham
SaraBeth Post
Gillian Preston
Madeline Rile-Smith
Laurie Salopek
Daria Sandburg
Barbara  B. Simon
Lisa F. St. Martin
Ann Steenkiste
Tiger Waddell
Jeri Warhaftig
Deborah B. Weaver
Jeri J. Wiskus
Margaret  L. Zinser Hunt
Caterina Zucchi

JRA Private Dinner at the Lane Collection

The James Renwick Alliance(JRA) is a vibrant group of art enthusiasts, collectors, artists, educators, students and art professionals who share a passion for contemporary American craft.  Members of the JRA enjoy a diverse year round schedule of programs including, social events, educational lectures and tours, and art-inspired excursions – one of which comes up soon! – LeslieLaneDinner2017_FINAL

On October 3rd, the JRA presents one of this year’s featured events : A Private Dinner at the Lane Collection. 
This is a unique opportunity to dine with collectors Leslie and Bruce Lane. They recently transformed their French country-style home into a exceptional showcase of contemporary craft. Highlights of their museum-quality collection include works by Lino Tagliapietra, Dan Dailey, Michael Janis, Dante Marioni, Dale Chihuly and Therman Statom as well as pieces by emerging artists.

Michael Janis, "Finding My Soul A Home", 2015, fused and cast glass, glass powder imagery, steel

Michael Janis, “Finding My Soul A Home”, 2015, fused and cast glass, glass powder imagery, steel

Lean more – click HERE

After registering, further details including an address will be emailed. 

Cost: $250 for members | $400 for non-members 

Weekend with Bernstein! JRA Distinguished Artist Alex Bernstein

The James Renwick Alliance’s (JRA) annual Distinguished Artist Series (DAS) brings notable craft artists from around the country – and the season started off great with Alex Bernstein as the distinguished artist in Glass. 

DAS Alex Bernstein begins his workshop demo at the Washington Glass School. photo by Diane Charnov

DAS Alex Bernstein begins his workshop demo at the Washington Glass School. photo by Diane Charnov

Alex took the JRA workshop attendees along a journey from billet to awesome in about 3 hours! 

Alex outlined his process with copious notes on his process. photo Laurie Brown

Alex outlined his process with copious notes on his process. photo Laurie Brown

The JRA Distinguished Artist walked the audience thru his signature process of “Bernstein-ing” his work, and everyone loved it!

Alx Bernstein outlines his glass grinding process with notes about the grit sizes used. photo Diane Charnov

Alx Bernstein outlines his glass grinding process with notes about the grit sizes used. photo Diane Charnov

Alex carved fine slices into the glass slab, much like a stone carver would approach a marble block. photo by Diane Charnov

Alex carved fine slices into the glass slab, much like a stone carver would approach a marble block. photo by Diane Charnov

Alex then masks off the glass before he "Bernsteins" his glass. photo by Diane Charnov

Alex then masks off the glass before he “Bernsteins” his glass. photo by Diane Charnov

With great flourish -using a metal grinder and showering all in a hail of sparks - Alex fuses bits of steel into the exposed glass area and patina's the metal finish. photo by Diane Charnov

With great flourish -using a metal grinder and showering all in a hail of sparks – Alex fuses bits of steel into the exposed glass area and patina’s the metal finish. photo by Diane Charnov

Alex's finished demo piece, titled "Blue Mountain" was later auctioned off to support the DAS program.

Alex’s finished demo piece, titled “Blue Mountain” was later auctioned off to support the  JRA DAS program.

The next day, Alex Bernstein presented a talk at the American University Museum Katzen Arts Center, where he talked more about his work, history and how he balanced his concepts, process, career and family. An incredible story! 

bernstein.jra.katzen.DAS_talk

Alex connected with the audience on a personal level.

 

Smithsonian Curator Abraham Thomas talks with Judith Schaechter about her influences, including high culture,  pop culture... and the Ramones.

Smithsonian Curator Abraham Thomas talks with Judith Schaechter about her influences, including high culture, pop culture… and the Ramones.

The glass weekend kept going strong – later in the day, at the Smithsonian Renwick Museum, glass artist Judith Schaechter talked about her work and influences.

The Smithsonian also honored the JRA’s Paul & Elmerina Parkman for their years of service to the glass art world as they prepare to move to their home in New York.

SAAM Director Stephanie Stebich honors the Parkmens.

SAAM Director Stephanie Stebich honored the Parkmens.

This weekend will take while to assimilate all the information and craft exuberance that took place! Alex did achieve the Awesomeness promised.

The JRA mission is to advance scholarship, education and public appreciation of craft art as well as promoting individual achievements of excellence and innovation in the craft field.  The JRA is made from a vibrant group of art enthusiasts, collectors, artists, educators, students and art professionals who share a passion for contemporary American craft.  For more info – click HERE to jump to the JRA site.

Holy Toledo! Diane Wright named Curator of Glass @ TMA!!!

Breaking News! Diane Wright Named Curator of Glass at TMA –

Curator Diane Wright recently co-curated the collaborative exhibit by Washington Glass School & Virginia Glass Guild at Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center during the Norfolk GAS Conference in June 2017.

Curator Diane Wright recently co-curated the collaborative exhibit by Washington Glass School & Virginia Glass Guild at Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center during the Norfolk GAS Conference in June 2017.

The Toledo Museum of Art (TMA) today announced that Diane C. Wright has been appointed as curator of glass beginning Nov. 13. In this role, Wright will be responsible for overseeing TMA’s world-renowned and growing glass and decorative arts collection, including acquisitions, research, exhibitions and publications.
Since 2014, Wright has served as the Carolyn and Richard Barry Curator of Glass at the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk, VA. She is a recognized scholar of the windows and mosaics of Louis Comfort Tiffany and his studio. Wright received a B.A. in history from the University of Utah and an M.A. in the history of decorative arts from Parsons School of Design at The New School in New York.

Prior to her position at the Chrysler Museum, Wright was marketing and communications manager at the Pilchuck Glass School in Seattle, Marcia Brady Tucker Senior Curatorial Fellow at the Yale University Art Gallery and museum educator at the Corning Museum of Glass.

Curator Diane Wright talks about Erwin Timmers sculpture featured at "Embracing Narrative" exhibit.

Curator Diane Wright talks about Erwin Timmers sculpture featured at “Embracing Narrative” exhibit.

“Diane Wright joins the Toledo Museum of Art with an impressive background in glass arts education and curation,” said Brian Kennedy, president, director and CEO of TMA
“Her impressive work at the Chrysler Museum of Art, and knowledge of the glass field, including leaded-glass windows and mosaics of Tiffany Studios, are sure to continue and advance the reputation of Toledo’s glass collection and state-of-the-art Glass Pavilion”

Judith Schaechter at Renwick Gallery & Parkmans Celebrated!

judith

This Sunday afternoon (Sept 24, 2017) join Abraham Thomas, Curator-in-Charge of the Smithsonian Renwick Gallery, as he talks with acclaimed glass artist Judith Schaechter about her work and creative process.  Known for her remarkably intricate and provocative pieces, Judith is collected by numerous museum including the Met in New York, the Victoria and Albert in London, the Hermitage, the Corning Museum of Glass, and the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian.

Elmerina and Paul Parkman

Elmerina and Paul Parkman

The day concludes with a presentation at the Renwick Gallery in honor James Renwick Alliance founders Paul and Elmerina Parkman and celebrate their contributions to the Studio Glass Movement 

Sunday, September 24, 2017, 2 – 3 PM

Smithsonian Museum’s Renwick Gallery’s Rubenstein Grand Salon
1661 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20006
Cost: Free

WGS Hosts James Renwick Alliance Distinguished Artist Alex Bernstein Workshop

Alex Bernstein, Morning Balance - 26x26x5" - Cast and cut glass, fused steel

Alex Bernstein, Morning Balance – 26x26x5″ – Cast and cut glass, fused steel

The James Renwick Alliance’s annual Distinguished Artist Series brings notable craft artists from around the country to provide insight into their work. Each Distinguished Artist weekend includes a Saturday workshop and free Sunday public lecture at which the artist will discuss their technique, background, artistic influences, and career. 

Alex Bernstein

Alex Bernstein

The JRA named Alex Bernstein as one of this year’s Distinguished Artist and he will be at the Washington Glass School for a demo workshop on Saturday, September 23rd, 2017 from 9:30am-12:30pm where Alex will discuss the making of his artwork and demonstrate some of his cold-working techniques. Participants in the workshop will participate in the design the sculpture Alex will make at the studio. The morning begins with a brief meet-and-greet with the artist over coffee and pastries. Workshop participants will have the opportunity to attend a potluck dinner with the artist on Saturday evening. On Sunday, September 24th, 2017, the JRA will provide a free public lecture by the artist at American University’s Katzen Arts Center from 10 AM – 11AM.

Alex Bernstein, "Black Mountain 2", Cast & cut glass, fused steel

Alex Bernstein, “Black Mountain 2”, Cast & cut glass, fused steel

Award winning artist Alex Gabriel Bernstein grew up in a creative environment with access to many of the artists of the American studio glass movement. As the child of two established glass artists, William and Katherine Bernstein (Billy is one of the founding members of the Glass Art Society), the beautiful surroundings of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina where they lived played almost as much of a part in his inspired upbringing as did the breadth of teachers around him.

Alex will talk about his family’s influence, how he pushed the boundaries in glass sculpture technique and how he found his voice.

The James Renwick Alliance (JRA) is a vibrant group of art enthusiasts, collectors, artists, educators, students and art professionals who share a passion for contemporary American craft.  JRA members enjoy a diverse year-round schedule of programs including, social events, educational lectures and tours, and art-inspired excursions.

The JRA is committed to advancing scholarship, education and public appreciation of craft art as well as promoting individual achievements of excellence and innovation in the craft field.  As an independent non-profit organization, the JRA has provided more than $3 million for acquisitions, exhibitions, public programs, and publications to Smithsonian American Art Museum’s Renwick Gallery – our nation’s showcase of contemporary American craft.

Alex Bernstein Distinguished Artist Workshop:
Saturday, September 23  |  9:30am – 12:30pm
Washington Glass School  |  3700 Otis St, Mt Rainier, MD 20712
$50 members  |  $60 non members

To register for Alex Bernstein workshop at the Washington Glass School – click HERE.

NCAGG “Edge of Light” Exhibit at A&M Studios 2

ncagg.edge.light

Sherry Selevan’s cool glass bowl turns heads.

The Edge of Light! is a juried show featuring the work of NCAGG members. The exhibition will be held at Artists & Makers Studios 2, located at 12276 Wilkins Avenue in Rockville, MD.

Veta Carney's cast glass sculpture "Edge of Extinction".

Veta Carney’s cast glass sculpture “Edge of Extinction”.

Artists & Makers Studios is home to over 70 artists.

The Edge of Light! theme was to suggest anything that is “edgy” (literally or figuratively), “off-the-cuff,” or unusual. This juried exhibition is the major component of the show, but there are plans to have an artist demonstration and/or talk for visitors to the gallery.

ncagg.patricia.de.poel.wilberg

Whimsical artwork by Patricia De Poel Wilberg.

“The Edge of Light” with the National Capital Art Glass Guild
Opening Reception
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Friday, September 8th, 2017
Artists & Makers Studios 2
12276 Wilkins Avenue
Rockville, MD 20852