Creativity seemed inherent in me; the ability to execute these ideas came easily as well. I jumped head first into every hobby I stumbled across, often buying every tool and all materials needed for the project without even trying it first. If it involved tools, building, cutting, painting or decorating something, I was all over it. Stained glass was challenging with its level of difficulty and th
e many steps involved with making each piece; yet limitless with it's function and creative uses. It was also stunning in it's final form. "Necessity is the mother of all invention"... In my case it was 'grandmother'. In our weekly card games my grandmother had difficulty reaching the cards across the large round table. The next week I surprised her with a giant lazy susan covered with an underwater scene mosaic using stained glass, stone and marble. Not only can she reach the cards better but she can see them better as well. When it's not being used for card games or food serving, it reflects the light beaming through my kitchen windows and decorates the room with both a functional and artistic flair. Family, neighbors and friends began to ask about the piece and inquire about how much I sold them for. This planted a seed. I began to apply glass to many surfaces including my patio, outdoor concrete benches, stepping stones and birdbath bowls. Having done traditional stained glass for many years, I hit on a side of the hobby that inspired me to do more. This is how Sassy Glass materialized. Applying mosaic glass on virtually any surface is my favorite medium, but I also create 3-dimensional glass 'flower gardens' made from broken glass and attached to antique windows. However, traditional stained glass pieces will always play a role in my favorite hobby. My Grandfather spent his lifetime working with concrete. His last 15 years were spent making birdbaths, benches, flower pots, & stepping stones, and he taught me everything I know about the subject. Before he died, I bought all his concrete molds and equipment from him and recently began to make my own pieces. I know he would be happy that his granddaughter is taking his hobby to another level. Glass mosaic on these pieces makes an amazing statement and brings color & creativity to the outdoors. Every time I apply my art to concrete, I think of him. I can hear him saying, "It's beautiful, grandbaby." Miss him every day. Ironically, my "left-brained" career in Biotech Pharmaceuticals did not match my "right-brained," inventive and creative side. In 2007, my daughter Berlin was born. I decided to trade in my designer suits for sporty cotton and raise my daughter at home. I soon found periods of time in the day 'just for me'. Working with glass seemed a great way to spend it. I am thrilled to see where this new chapter of life will lead me. Between Sassy Glass and spending time with my family, there is never a dull moment.
05/29/2012
