Lisa
I've been told that true art comes from the heart. I'm finding inspiration all around me in the things that I love. Family & nature provide an abundance of emotions, colors and ideas for my work. As I continue to learn and be inspired, I'll share my works here.
I've been inspired by and learning from Paul Tarlow, a long time Austin, Tx artist who was the owner/operator of Helios Kiln Glass Studio at the time. I came upon this studio truly by intended accident, as everything happens for a reason. I have so much to learn. If you get a chance to visit Helios, you should. Their visiting instructors offer a variety of knowledge and techniques.
My own studio is a work in progress. I prefer to use Bullseye Glass products as I appreciate the quality. We recently acquired a Paragon GL24 so that we can do high fire projects and a Paragon Pearl 44 for some larger projects. I also have an SCM sand blaster, which was a splurge for sure, but can multi-task as an engraver. We created a glass storage unit so I can appease my need for order. Thanks to Paul, we made our strip cutter for much less than purchasing one. The 24" flat lap is a life saver when it comes to making edges and surfaces true. Along with various glass saws, grinders and other tools, I've got plenty to help me create works of glass art. Visit our photos page to see some of our creations.
News
I've decided to retire from CTRMA and pursue fusing glass. It makes my heart happy. We're building a new studio which is definitely a work in progress. Let me just say that moving a fully operational glass studio with 6 kilns and lots of equipment is not for the faint of heart. We've decided to sell our current home and take our glass with us. Stay tuned for more!
I decided to accept a full time position with the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority as a Sr. Project Mgr. I will be implementing an Asset Management program for them, an extension of what I did for Williamson County. After my trip to Scotland last year, which was a life changing event both personally and artistically, I once again have to find balance between work & art. Guess which one I prefer. The six month break was great, a nice reset. Guess I wasn't finished yet....
I'm retiring from my "day" job to become a full time fused glass artist. May 9th, my 60th birthday, is the beginning of my new adventure. What better birthday gift could I give myself? It's taken a lot of planning, some hesitation but not much, and a promise to myself to make it happen. (I think Gerald may be just a "little" jealous) My upcoming trip to North Lands Creative Glass with a group from Helios Fused Glass Studio in June will be an inspiring adventure for sure. Wish me luck! - Lisa