Inspired by Narcissus Quagliata

Bonnie Faulkner Kiln formed glass

I recently attended a kiln glass class at Bullseye Glass Center in Mamaroneck, NY that was taught by someone that I've always wanted to meet, glass artist Narcissus Quagliata.  The fact that I got to study with him was phenomenal, and I feel so fortunate that I had the opportunity.  I am a good student and tend to ask a zillion questions and push the envelope of instruction a little.  The 5 days flew by, I wanted 50 more!

Someone gave me an old soft cover book that Narcissus wrote in the 70's relating to his stained glass.  There was something about his sense of design and subject matter that interested me.  Was it the simplicity? Or was it that he this painterly quality to the pieces he made.  He began his art career as a watercolor artist, and has transformed glass in ways that are breathtaking, all due to his watercolor background.

He had us 'moving' glass using gravity and the heat from the kiln.  We learned not to be afraid of trial and error, do it again if it doesn't work. 

Narcissus calls these "sliders" and this is my first one.

We layered colorful glass in a way that would melt down into other colors and shapes of glass.  One they were fired, we admired, oohed and ahhed about each one and learned what different shapes and positions glass took after firing.

We then used Ferro Enamels to paint on the slider to get even more interesting effects.

The process was right up my alley as I love to discover new ways to make layers of glass work.  These "sliders" are beautiful all by themselves, but can be cut up and refired in a plethora of ways.

Narcissus critiquing our work after firing.  His suggestions were always helpful and insightful.

Boiano Baker was a frequent stop for me!  It was a treat to walk over and get some delicious Italian pastries.