After
resigning from the last of those studios, I went to work for
Chicago Art Glass and Jewel, helping to manufacture their line of
high- end opalescent glass. I was their production manager for almost
a year, and not only made sheet glass, but also many pressed glass
items, such as tiles and jewels. The commute from my home to their
facility proved to be too much, but I treasure my time and experience
working for them.
During my years with Schlitz Studios,
I learned the basic metal finishing skills necessary for the patination
of both shades and bases. Beginning in 1999, after having opened my
own studio, I felt it was imperative for me to learn more than just
simple patination skills to become more self- sufficient in my field.
I apprenticed under a well known bronze artist and learned the
art of the lost wax casting process, as well as many patina formulas
and tricks. My mold making skills have been honed and my wax castings
are, according to the nationally acclaimed foundry that I use exclusively,
some of the most accurate they receive for casting.
I am continually striving to expand my repertoire as an artist and
artisan. As my fascination for the decorative arts grows with my continued
exposure to more great historical works, so does my desire to learn
the techniques neccessary to create works of equal caliber.
