Michael Monroe, former curator-in-charge at the Smithsonian Museum’s Renwick Gallery and Director Emeritus of the Bellevue Arts Museum, is perhaps this country’s leading authority on American art glass. He also happens to head Artful Home’s jury that reviews each new artist we represent. So naturally, we listen when Michael speaks about art glass.
In honor of our celebration of 50 years of American art glass, Michael has selected and talked about a few glass pieces from Artful Home, which we are thrilled to share with you here. Visit our Pinterest board to share in your community. (SG)
"Fern Perfume Bottle" by Mary Angus
"I love Mary’s masterful handling of the surface on this elegant perfume bottle. The gracefully curved fern fonds define and add depth to the bulbous form which is further enhanced by the acid etched surface, creating a softness to the contrasting sparkling clear stopper."
"Swallow Carriage" by Georgia and Joseph Pozycinski
"I enjoy the Egyptian references in this unique sculpture of bronze and glass elements, using the ancient technique of lost wax for both materials. A sense of whimsy is achieved in this ceremonial and ritualistic procession by harnessing birds of flight to transport the green glowing heavy box carrying a mysterious treasure."
"Color Weave Cone" by Brian Becher
I love examples of excellent design as seen in this graphic vase of imposing stature. Using thin rods of colored glass, Becher raps, twists, and overlaps his parallel linear patterns in an unexpected diagonal direction creating a sense of dynamic and uplifting movement, a hallmark of this remarkable technician and artist."
"Cathedral Dusk" by Bernie Huebner and Lucie Boucher
Using flat sheets of kiln-polished glass in layers separated by space, Huebner and Boucher’s Cathedral Series of sculptures perfectly captures the subtle shading and layering effect of fog- shrouded mountain ranges. The internal lighting further adds mystery and drama to this peaceful landscape."
"Leaf Bottles" by Nick Chase
"Chase’s bottles are beautifully proportioned, and with their small tops provide excellent broad surfaces for his application of delicate but graphically strong patterns of leaves. Note the soft warm interior glow that warmly contrasts winter’s frosty exterior imagery."
"Large Flamenco Vase" by Thomas Kelly
"In this stunningly elegant vase, Kelly captures the essence of the Flamenco dance with its dramatic energy and flamboyant movements."
"Menorah" by Nina Falk
A fresh and original interpretation of a menorah, Falk’s exquisite handling of two contrasting materials -- hot glass and polished brass -- perfectly captures the essence of warmth, transparency and reflection."
Michael has recently curated Spark and Flame: 50 Years of Art Glass and the University of Wisconsin-Madison at the Chazen Museum of Art here in Madison. You will be able to see it between April 21 and August 5, and it will be truly magnificent!