Adventures in Glass

Kim's First Panel . . .

2009-02-13T08:56:00.009-05:00

Note the precision and alignment of the leaded lines, the beautiful color and texture choices, and the look of satisfaction and accomplishment on Kim's face.

That's what it's all about. I've gotta say, we should all give him a round of applause for a job well done!!

Way
to
go,
Kim!!

He's already got another one started . . . Can't wait to see what he comes out with next!!

By the way, if you're in need of tires, auto repairs or brake service for your car or truck, Kim is the guy to see. He owns Binion Tire Company in Newnan. I am quite sure he'll take good care of you!

Kim Duncan
Binion Tire Company
(770) 253-4608
26 Spence Ave
Newnan, GA 30263

Blitz the Boxer

2009-02-01T11:38:00.011-05:00

Julie created this lovely portrait of Blitz the Boxer as a wedding gift. She really did a wonderful job!!!

The glass she used for the sky and the landscape was just beautiful. Blitz himself is simply stunning. From the photo below, I'd say that her portait looks just like him!!

Very nicely done, Julie!!!!!

Karen's Heron

2009-01-29T06:22:00.005-05:00

Karen just finished a spectacular rendition of a Great Blue Heron. She did a fantastic job of rendering the bird in exquisite detail. She even photographed a heron in the wild to make sure the coloring was anatomically correct. She did a wonderful job in selecting glass to represent the feathers and various landscape features.

Awesome job, Karen!!!!!

Ethan and Robbie with their friends

2009-01-06T12:37:00.007-05:00

Ethan and Robbie posed for these photos with their friends, Peggy Lee and Callie.

Thanks to Ethan, Robbie and McKenzie for helping Peggy Lee get over her fear of children. With their help, Peggy Lee just passed her final test to become a Therapy Dog!!

Robbie's New Project

2009-01-06T12:36:00.013-05:00

Here is Robbie's latest triumph. WAY TO GO!! I'm very proud of you!!!!!!

Beverly Finishes TWO Projects!!

2009-01-06T12:36:00.012-05:00

Beverly and I always laugh about how many projects she has going at one time. It is my job as the instructor to remind her to finish something!

She has really gone above and beyond for her first panel, and finished TWO!!!

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Both are simply gorgeous!! The color selections are just outstanding, and the precision of her work is nothing less than amazing!

We are especially proud of her for finishing two lovely panels!!

199th L.I.B. Christmas Surprise

2009-01-04T22:01:00.005-05:00

Kay,
I wanted to thank-you for creating a beautiful stained glass Christmas gift that proudly hangs in our home.
As the sun shines the Redcatcher stained glass artwork explodes with colors of the 199th LIB Unit insignia and reminds me of all the brave young men I had the honor of serving with during that troubled time.
Take care, stay healthy and happy
Rodger Crum
LTC USAR, Retired

The Youngest Active Stained Glass Student

2008-10-26T09:12:00.015-04:00

Robbie, one of Deborah's children, loves to hang around the studio. For his first project, he made a hummingbird suncatcher. The second project was an artist's palette from an original design. (Yes, that's right, I said ORIGINAL design.)

In the following photos, he is working on his third project.

He is really catching on quickly. He does all his own cutting and grinding, as well as his own soldering. I am constantly amazed at how enthusiastic he is about his work, and how focused he is on getting it done.

He pays for his materials and lessons by chipping up scrap glass to make "Sookie's Sea Glass". I pay him $0.80 per pound for this. It is not unusual for him to chip up 15 to 20 lb of glass in a day.

Louis Comfort Tiffany better watch out!!

Notable Quote

2008-10-25T05:57:00.014-04:00

Sometimes I come across something that perfectly sums up everything I wish I could put into words. The following is what I try to communicate to my students . . . and to myself.

"There is a vitality, a life-force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You have to keep open and aware directly to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open."
- Martha Graham to colleague Agnes DeMille

Rufus - A Foundling By Any Other Name

2008-10-25T05:47:00.013-04:00

Well, no good deed goes unpunished.

I was on my way to work at the studio in Moreland on Thursday, and saw a big ole red hound dog ambling down the middle of the road. Cars were screeching to a stop to try and avoid hitting him. He would just look up and mosey on out of the way. I passed him up, but then thought he was surely going to be hit, and I would hate to see him on the side of the road on the way home.

Bottom line, I turned around and went back for him. I spent my “spare” time on Thursday bathing, de-fleaing him and posting Found Dog signs. My “spare” time on Friday was spent taking him to the vet and trying to source out some low cost medications for him.

He is in pretty bad shape. Heartworms, ehrlichia, whipworms, hookworms and tapeworms. On the plus side, he is already neutered, seems to have a great temperament, and is a handsome boy. He looks to be a bloodhound / redbone / coonhound cross. He weighs in at a petite 97.3 lb.

Hopefully, my husband will come around . . . I don’t know of anyone in their right mind that would take him, knowing that they’ve got to do a heartworm treatment on him.

What's one more?

Cathy's Water Lily

2008-10-18T08:06:00.004-04:00

Another wonderful use of the medium by Cathy. She surely has a knack for interpreting the movement and images captured in the glass. This water lily and dragon fly are rendered beautifully. The background glass is just fabulous. If only the photo could do it justice!!

Hombre Makes the Big Time

2008-10-14T13:47:00.025-04:00

Kate's First Project - Portrait of Pooh

2008-09-10T07:48:00.010-04:00

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This is Kate's first project. An exquisite portrait of her first horse, Pooh. She did an outstanding job, capturing the details of the horse's expression. Also, she managed to recreate the precise details of the bridle and reins. The picture really doesn't do this one justice at all. It is BEAUTIFUL!!

Nicely done, Kate!!

Lanie Grace, the Youngest Stained Glass Student

2008-09-09T07:43:00.008-04:00

Lanie Grace has been attending Stained Glass Classes with her mother for a little over nine months now . . .

Nowadays, she comes to class sometimes, just to hang out . . . and have a little chat with the instructor . . .

If I'm lucky, I get to give her a bottle and burp her while the class works!! She is a wonderful little girl, and we love having her come by for a visit. Gotta start 'em out young!!

Hazzard at Friday Dog Training

2008-09-09T07:42:00.007-04:00

This photo is from our Friday Dog Training class . . .

Left to right - Front Row: Hazzard (Pit Bull), Abe (Cocker Spaniel), Zippy (Papillon)

Back row: Sparky (Miniature Pinscher), Peggy Lee (Australian Shepherd), Callie (Aussie), Hombre (Aussie), Dibley (Dalmatian)

What you can't tell by looking at this photo is that Hazzard was feared by his owner, Brenda, to be "dog aggressive". She was absolutely astounded that he so easily adapted to being around other dogs. We walked him with my band of Aussies, and posed for this picture afterward. Life is good!!

Brenda's First Leaded Panel

2008-09-02T10:32:00.012-04:00

Brenda is making three panels, one for each of the big bay windows in her kitchen. She has finished the center panel! It looks FANTASTIC!!

I just had to throw in the next photo. It captures the essence of Brenda's personality. She is delightful, beautiful and funny. What a great time we have on Mondays!!

Here's a photo of Brenda with Hombre, me and Carol.

You can't tell that we have a good time together!!

Ann's Carousel Horse

2008-08-10T08:36:00.004-04:00

Ann loves Carousel Horses. She chose this beautiful boy for her second project.

She did an amazing job with her textures and color choices. Way to go, Ann!! Another FABULOUS piece!!

Deborah's Portrait of Robbie and Josh

2008-08-05T08:08:00.011-04:00

The photo doesn't do it justice, but you can always come by the Studio to see it in person!!

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Deborah has really out done herself again. This is a beautifully executed portrait of her sons Josh and Robbie.

Way to go, Deborah!!

Deborah's Portrait of Steven

2008-08-05T08:06:00.004-04:00

Deborah created a portrait of her oldest son for her second project. This is absolutely amazing. I had my doubts about a black and white stained glass piece initially. I told her if she could see it, then go for it!!

I think she nailed it!! Of course, the photo does it no justice at all. The panel is fabulous. Right down to the woodgrain texture she captured on the logs. WOW!!

Portrait of Ali and Rose (Rocky, too!)

2008-08-05T08:05:00.016-04:00

Trisha Herring of NiteStar Australian Shepherds (http://www.nitestar.net/) has been one of my staunchest supporters over the years. She has commissioned me to do portraits of three of her dogs . . . so far :-) !! She also saw fit to let me have two of her beautiful girls, Peggy Lee and Callie.

The first portrait Trisha commissioned was of her "heart dog", A-BISS AKC/ASCA Ch NiteStar's Eye of the Tiger, "Rocky" . Here are some photos of that first portrait (my first dog portrait!).

Here is a comparison of the portrait to the photograph:

Earlier this year, Trisha's husband commissioned me to do a portrait of Trisha's two foundation bitches. Rose and Ali also happen to be the mothers of my two girls, Peggy Lee and Callie. Following are the photos and drawings I used to work up the pattern for the stained glass panel.

ASCA/AKC Ch Navarro's LoveStory of NiteStar, STDs, RS-N, GS-N, JS-N, NAC, NJC, NGC, DNA-CP, "Ali"

Hall Of Fame and ROMX-I, A-Ch Woodstock's Color Me "Rose" STDs, DNA-CP

The drawing used to make the stained glass pattern:

Here is the completed portrait. Everyone who saw it in the studio thought it was a portrait of Peggy Lee and Callie . . . they are indeed chips off the old block!!

Carol's Horses

2008-07-30T10:01:00.004-04:00

This is Carol's first piece . . . and what a doozie!!

This is a portrait of her two paint horses, Sissy and Sunshine. Carol did a fantastic job of glass selection to get just the right colors for the horses, the manes and the hooves. Her work is just fantastic!!

Way to go, girl!!!!

Maria's Mustang

2008-06-29T16:15:00.006-04:00

Once again, Maria has done a magnificent job!! This one is a "portrait" of her Uncle's Girlfriend, his 1967 Mustang Fastback. Her Uncle's wife commissioned this piece as a birthday present. Check it out!!

He looks pretty happy to me!!

Maria also looks very happy and proud of herself. . . . as she should be!! Very nicely done, Maria. You did a magnificent job!!

Ron's Great Big Ole Window Installation

2008-06-29T07:45:00.056-04:00

Ron has constructed the largest student project to date. It is a GREAT BIG OLE window for his bathroom window, over the garden tub. Following are some photos of installation day.

A final polish . . .

Ron, on the left, is thinking, "WOW, I can't believe I built this thing!!"
Bathroom window "Before":

Not to fear, Sookie is here!!

This tub ain't big enough for the three of us!!

Rub a dub, dub. Two men in a tub.

What can be said about this one, but WOW!! It is absolutely magnificent. Very nicely done, Ron. I know you are very proud of yourself, as are we all!! Thanks again for opening your home up to the class for installation day. We had a great time!

Dog Training Fridays - Play Time

2008-06-29T07:45:00.042-04:00

Another Friday Dog Training Session.

Here is McKenzie working with Hombre:

Remember Dibley, the neurotic Dalmatian that spent a week with us? This is Friday, the last day of Dibley's Boot Camp. What a difference a week makes!!

It is PLAY TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!

Peggy jumps straight up in the air when she's happy!!

Dibley in Boot Camp

2008-06-29T07:44:00.068-04:00

Dibley stayed at Moore Manor for a week of "Boot Camp" while Carol was away on vacation. He did very well, learning a lot about doggie manners, as well as people manners. Here are some photos.

He is initiating play with Callie and Peggy. What a leap forward for a fearful dog!!

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What a difference in this dog. A stable pack can work wonders on a dog in need of socialization and manners. Dibley is a testament to that fact. Look at the difference in him in the following photo. It is pretty amazing to me!

Brenda's Hummingbird

2008-06-29T07:44:00.062-04:00

Here is a photo of a very proud Brenda with her first project. She did a fantastic job!! Wonderful use of the glass, and beautiful, bright colors.

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I can't wait to see what she'll do next!!!

Great job, Brenda!

Dog Training Fridays

2008-06-29T07:44:00.052-04:00

Did you ever wonder what a Glass Gal does in her spare time?

What spare time this Glass Gal has, is often spent in the company of dogs.

Some of my Stained Glass students convinced me to begin holding an informal Dog Training session on Friday mornings. We work with our dogs on obedience and manners, and try to address any problem behaviors they (the dogs and/or the owners!) may have. Sometimes we work hard, other times not so much! Deborah was kind enough to photograph one of our recent sessions.

Here is my pack:
WTCH True Grit Hombre

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Nitestar's True Blue Moore, CGC, TT
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Nitestar's Peggy Lee, CGC
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In this session, we worked on an orderly and controlled method of feeding. In this method, the dogs all sit and wait to be released before they eat. This is an excellent way to establish leadership within your pack, as the leader always controls the food.

It is tough being a "demo dog"!

Now Carol's dog, Dibley, will join us.

Dibley came to our first session as a very timid, fearful soul. He would panic and vocalize (snarl, growl, scream, show every tooth in his head in a very scary way!) if any dog or human got too close.
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Here you can see that Dibley isn't really happy with the situation, but he's working through it. That's all we are asking him to do.

It is interesting to note the difference in appearance between a sassy, confident dog like Callie . . .
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and a timid, fearful dog like Dibley.

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We are also letting the children get in on the training. It is good for the dogs, as well as the children. Keep in mind in the following photos, Peggy Lee has been frightened of children in the past. I'd say she is well on her way to loving kids now!!

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Here is Mary Beth's little guy, Sparky. He is all puppy, and is learning some manners!
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This last photo captures the essence of working with dogs to me. Peggy Lee is thoroughly enjoying our time together.
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That's what it's all about!!

Deborah's Portrait of Koz

2008-06-29T07:43:00.004-04:00

Here's Deborah's latest masterpiece! It is a portrait of her friend's dog, Koz. Her friend was thrilled to receive such a special gift.

As usual, the photo doesn't do it justice. She captured every detail of Koz's expression, right down to the pupils of his eyes and his nostrils, and the shadow on his tongue. I think he looks like he is smiling.

Way to go, Deborah. You did a FANTASTIC job on this one!

Elaine's Dog Portraits

2008-06-29T07:42:00.016-04:00

A BLAST FROM THE PAST!!

I was thrilled to hear that my dear friend from almost 15 years ago has revived her art career. She is doing some fascinating work with dog portraits in colored pencil. Check it out!
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The following are portraits of her dogs, Diesel and Tank.

I love how she has captured the textures and expressions.

Elaine is currently accepting commissions. If you want to immortalize your cherished companion, just email me at ksmoore@mindspring.com, and I'll hook you up!

Danny's Flame

2008-05-27T07:17:00.011-04:00

Danny's second panel was made for his daughter's High School graduation present. The story behind it is very interesting.

Danny's daughter took a photograph of a tiki torch flame and smoke, and entered it into a photo contest. She won first prize for the photo!

Danny took the photo and we designed a small stained glass panel for her. His exquisite workmanship really shines in this panel. I know his daughter was thrilled to receive such a stunning present.

Way to go!!

Karen's Poppy

2008-05-27T07:17:00.008-04:00

For Karen's next panel, she chose a Georgia O'Keefe painting of a red poppy.

No doubt, Georgia O'Keefe would have been very proud of Karen's tribute. This piece is absolutely stunning in the light. Karen did a fantastic job in her use of the glass. The foil overlays she used for the center details put the icing on the cake.

Very nicely done!!!

Cathy's Kingfisher

2008-05-27T07:16:00.006-04:00

Cathy has done it again, with this beautifully rendered Kingfisher.

The glass she chose for the background is absolutely spectacular. This one is a show stopper. Way to go, Cathy!

Maria, Carol and Brenda Works in Process

2008-05-23T10:13:00.006-04:00

Maria took some photos of works in progress around the shop. Here is Brenda's first leaded piece. It is shaping up nicely!

This is Carol's first piece. It is a portrait of her two horses. It is going to be awesome!

Maria also sent the photo of her latest creation. I think it is going to be pretty wonderful!!

Danny's First Project

2008-04-27T07:53:00.004-04:00

Here is Danny's first project. The workmanship on this one is fantastic!! He made this one as an anniversary gift to his wife. What a guy!!

Very nicely done, Danny! I know she's going to love it!!!

Stockdog Clinic - April 12th

2008-04-25T07:41:00.060-04:00

We attended a Stockdog Clinic at True Grit Farm the weekend of April 12th. It was the most fun I've had in a while!! Thanks to Devona and Bob Myrick for their graciousness and hospitality. . . and for the excellent SANGRIA!! I think everyone, human and canine alike, had a blast.

Kay, Peggy Lee, Hombre & Callie are head out across the pasture to the arena.
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Following are some links to the videos that were taken over the weekend . . .

Kay and Hombre: http://www.supastream.com/video/play.php?id=3180&u=560
Kay and Peggy Lee: http://www.supastream.com/video/play.php?id=3184&u=560
Devona and Monty: http://www.supastream.com/video/play.php?id=3165&u=560
Devona and Jackie: http://www.supastream.com/video/play.php?id=3169&u=560
Devona and Rich: http://www.supastream.com/video/play.php?id=3170&u=560

Here are a few (well actually, there are quite a bit more than a few!!) photos of the fun . . .

Kay and Peggy Lee:

The first thing I mastered this weekend was to control the movement of my stick. A super long bamboo pole is used to put pressure on the dog, when it needs to kick out further away from the stock. The stick is also used to indicate to a trained dog which direction you DON'T want the dog to go. That's tough to remember!!
The hardest part of all this is that you must learn to keep the stick in a neutral position, and keep it still when you aren't intending to put pressure on the dog. A stick that waves around wildly is terribly confusing to the poor dog!!
In the following photo, note the excellent concentration and neutral stick position!!
By the way, the object at the end of the stick is an empty water bottle filled with pea gravel. That makes noise, so the dog will pay more attention to it.

A horizontal stick position calls for a STOP or a DOWN from the dog.

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Peggy Lee has really turned on to stock since Hombre came along. Here she is very happy with the praise she's getting and jumps straight up in the air!!
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A huge part of the fun of these clinics is sitting and watching everyone else run. Here, Bob and Devona discuss a cattle run.
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Now it is time for Hombre to teach me a thing or two!!

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All of the dogs wait along the fenceline for their turn to run.
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Here's Callie . . .

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And Duke (Hombre's nephew) . . .
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And Hombre . . .
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It is all in all a good place to hang out and bond with your dog! And to forge friendships that will last forever.

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In a moment of temporary insanity, Devona decided to take Callie into the small arena to work sheep. What was she thinking?!?

Whenever you see sheep going in a million different directions, followed by a whirling dervish, you can be sure it is CALLIE!

Bob and BreAnn work sheep:

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Mary Dee and Nikki:

There were six people at the clinic, with about 16 dogs. It was amazing to see every one of the dogs turned out into the yard together. They all played together and had a grand time.

After all, it is all about the dogs!

Bruiser . . . Sally's Latest Project

2008-04-19T08:07:00.006-04:00

Sally's latest project was a portrait of her husband's favorite home-grown champion bird dog. I think she has really out done herself again! Can you believe this is just her second project???

As usual, the picture in no way does this piece justice. It is absolutely stunning. Her interpretation of the foliage and sky is superb. She selected the glass carefully, so that the grain of the glass would represent the musculature of the dog, Bruiser.

Sally tells me that Bill loved it! I know she is very proud of Bruiser (the panel and the dog!), as she should be! Excellent work, Sally. We are all very proud of your accomplishment!!!

Cathy's Oyster Catchers

2008-04-19T08:06:00.008-04:00

Cathy strikes again. This time with a lovely rendition of a group of Oyster Catchers scurrying along the beach.

Cathy's use of glass is amazing. Nothe the ripples of the ocean water and the texture of the sand on the beach. She chose a beautiful glass for the sky. It really makes the birds pop out of the picture. Notice also the swirls in the black glass used for the bird bodies. It gives the birds the illusion of feathers.

Very nicely done, Cathy. I can't wait to show you all what she's working on now!!!

Deborah's First Project

2008-04-19T08:05:00.008-04:00

Deborah is a very talented artist. She has done pottery, is a prolific photographer, is a rabid mosaic artist, and is now venturing forth into the world of stained glass . . . oh yeah, and she's in my watercolor class, too!! She is also the driving force and boss lady behind Images Gallery and Studio. She is giving many other local artists, myself included, an outlet for selling their art and teaching their art. What a gal, huh?!?!

For her first stained glass project, Deborah wanted to adapt a photo of two of her children into a stained glass portrait. Never one to side step a challenge, I said "SURE! We can do that!!"

You be the judge . . . I think she nailed it!!

Deborah's work is on display at Images Gallery, along with hundreds of excellent examples of local artists' talent. Be sure to come see us when you can!!

http://www.imagesgallery.biz/

Mary Beth's Eagle

2008-02-17T14:51:00.007-05:00

What can be said of this one, but WOW!! Mary Beth created this wonderful depiction of an eagle in flight for her brother's birthday.

She took her original photo of the eagle, and transformed it into the glass pattern (with just a tiny little bit of help from me!). Then she ordered the fabulously expensive sky background glass from Uroboros.

The workmanship on this piece is exquisite. The piece is absolutely stunning in the sunlight. SPECTACULAR!!

Maria's First Project

2008-02-17T14:50:00.003-05:00

Where to start with this one? Let's start with the photo, that pretty much says it all . . .

Maria nailed the feeling of the Edvard Munch painting "The Scream". Her use of the glass is phenomenal. The colors, grains and textures were all carefully selected for every piece. I am once again astounded at the complexity and quality of work that my students are turning out. I can't believe that "first timers" are doing all these amazing things!!

Maria, applause and hugs for a job well done. I am so proud of your accomplishment!! WOW!!

James' First Project

2008-02-17T14:49:00.005-05:00

When you look up "meticulous" in the dictionary, you'll see a picture of James and this panel.

The perfection extends from the glass selections, to the placement of the pieces to catch just the right grain of the glass. . . to the perfection in cutting and fitting . . . dare I mention the perfection in the foiling . . . and let's not forget the outstanding job of soldering . . . and the fabulously precise zinc framing job.

All kidding aside, I don't know when I've seen a more precisely executed piece. I have certainly never seen a nicer job of framing with zinc. Well done, James. You should be very proud of your accomplishment! I know that I am very proud of you!!

Eve's First Project

2008-02-17T14:48:00.006-05:00

Eve is a quilter, and turned out this exquisite little panel for her first project.

She took a quilting pattern and Suzi (her daughter-in-law and fellow student) helped her make it into a stained glass pattern. She framed the completed project in oak. Eve's attention to detail really paid off in a stunningly beautiful piece. Nice work!!

A Legend in His Own Mind

2008-02-17T14:29:00.009-05:00

Our friend, Mark, took a photo in Metropolis, Illinois that was the inspiration for this painting. (They have a giant Superman statue there.) He graciously allowed me to use his photograph. It is in his honor that I named this painting, "A Legend in His Own Mind".

Of course, he and Craig are arguing about which one of them this painting is supposed to be a "portrait" of . . . I rest my case . . . Legends in their own minds!!!!!!!!

Turner Door

2008-02-17T13:48:00.017-05:00

My neighbor (and fellow artist), Bill Turner, asked me to create a door panel for his new home, which was being built back in the woods behind our house. He sketched out a design representing the rock formation, apparently man-made, they found when grading the site for the new construction.

The rock formation is pretty narrow. It looks like it could be about the size of a grave. It is situated along one side of a knoll, and some springs emerge from the other side. Who knows what this formation signifies. It is really interesting, though.

Bill thought it would be cool to incorporate this design into the house, thus honoring the folks who came before us to this land.

Here is a shot of the door panel from the outside.

This is from the inside.

Check out Bill's work at http://www.billturner.net/

Around the Studio

2008-02-17T13:26:00.006-05:00

A couple of scenes from the studio . . .

This is Maria's project "The Scream" in progress.

And Suzi, ever the thoughtful daugther gives Mom, Karen, a gift certificate (made of stained glass) for stained glass supplies. Mom was pretty happy about that!

Julie's First Projects

2008-02-17T13:12:00.005-05:00

Julie has completed two projects recently. The Pumpkin is her first.

This is the second. She made this small dogwood panel for a garden stake she found.

Both are beautiful! With excellent choice of colors and nice use of the glass.

Great job, Julie!!!

A Happy Graduate

2008-02-17T13:09:00.005-05:00

Sally's son was pretty happy with the Graduation Present:

Suzi's Luna Moth

2008-02-17T12:29:00.004-05:00

This is Suzi's latest creation:

Can you belive it? She just showed up in class one day with a photo of a Luna Moth, and sketched out this pattern. By the time she left that day, she had selected glass and gotten everything cut out. She completed this panel in record time. It is absolutely lovely!

Very nicely done, Suzi!!

Ron's Sidelight

2007-12-12T06:26:00.001-05:00

Here is a photo of Ron's latest project. I think it turned out FANTASTIC!! The colors he chose are really set off by the colors in the room. Way to go, Ron!!

More Student Projects Completed!

2007-12-11T10:50:00.001-05:00

Here are the very latest updates on the progress of my students. They are working like crazy, and turning out some outstanding work!

This is Sally with her "Fuzzy Little Yellow Bee" that she made for her son's graduation present. This is Sally's first project. She did a fantastic job on it. I know she is proud!

This is Karen with her first project. It is one of a pair of dragonflies that will grace her kitchen window. She used some exquisite antique cobalt blue glass in the dragonfly body. That glass came from some old church windows they found in their barn when they bought their property in Alabama. She has done a super job on this project! The colors are dazzling!!

Here is Ann with her first project. She was so worried that she couldn't do stained glass! Can you believe it?? She has shown us all that she can do a spectacular job!! I can't wait to see her next project!

Last, but certainly not least, is Cathy. Again, this is her first project. She took the design from a painting she had of a Puffin. The eyes were made from some old costume jewelry earrings. I think they really took this piece to the next level. Cathy's use of glass in this piece is extraordinary. She chose swirls in the glass to enhance the look of feathers and the shape of the birds features.

Congratulations to all of you on a job very well done!!

Sookie's BIG JOB

2007-12-11T09:25:00.004-05:00

Here is another belated update . . . I have been boring you all to tears for the past year with the story of the "BIG GRANT PARK JOB". Well, it is finished!! The client was happy and all is right with the world!!

Here are a few (well, OK, a lot of) photos from the installation:

Sookie is hard at work!

This shot shows some of the contrasting textures of the clear glass we used to accent the bevels and bevel clusters.

Another good texture shot.

Happy campers!!

Who could ask for a more satisfying career? To be the instrument that delivers these projects from a simple concept to a solid panel of lead and glass, and then to have them installed and beautiful and to daily enhance someone else's life . . . wow. I am a lucky Glass Gal indeed.

Angela and Margaret - First Projects

2007-12-11T08:53:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple of belated updates . . .

This is Margaret's first project:

Absolutley stunning! Great job, Margaret!!

Here is Angela's first project:

Of course, Angela is a big ole smarty pants, and doesn't like having her picture taken. Who does?? I don't understand it, because she is just as lovely as this panel she created! See what I mean?

Fabulous work, Angela! As always, I am VERY PROUD of my students! They are all stars in my book!!

Stained Glass Class - Candid Shots

2007-12-10T08:03:00.001-05:00

Here are a few shots taken around the studio during Tuesday night classes . . .

This is Deborah a.k.a. the "Mosaic Maven" hard at work . . .

Ron and Mary Beth are deep in concentration . . .

Here is Ron with his project . . .

Here's a closer view of Ron's panel . . .

Sally foils her panel . . .

Close up of Sally's "Fuzzy Little Yellow Bee" . . .

Sorry, but you can't see any more of Mary Beth's panel yet . . . she is giving it to someone very special, and it can't be revealed yet!! Don't want to ruin the surprise!!!

Notable Quote

2007-12-10T07:31:00.000-05:00

This is Deborah's mosaic bench . . .

It made me think of a great quote by W.C. Fields . . .

“Everybody’s got to believe in something.
I believe I’ll have another beer.”

Purple Coneflower

2007-12-10T07:26:00.000-05:00

Here is the latest watercolor painting . . . I began this one in May and finished in November. Whew!! The class thought I was surely going over the edge on this one . . . for a while, I thought I might, too!!

Images Summer Art Camp 2007

2007-12-09T09:47:00.000-05:00

OK, I know it is winter now, but I just got the photos from Deborah . . . here are some of my favorite candid shots from Summer Art Camp at Images Studio 2007. We had a GREAT time!

This is Trisha, our own little "Mockingbird of Sunshine". She was the primary instructor for our Summer Camp. She did a fantastic job. The kids loved her, the other instructors loved her, the parents loved her . . . the whole world loves her!! She is a delightful person, and a wonderful artist.

This is Bailey (who is Trisha's daughter) and Hombre. Bailey was drawing a picture of herself taking Hombre for a walk. From the looks of it, Hombre thought that she did a pretty good job!

Hombre stayed pretty busy being an artists' model during summer camp . . .

Here he poses with the campers . . .

Notable Quote

2007-12-09T09:27:00.000-05:00

"In every person who comes near you look for what is good and strong; honor that; try to imitate it, and your faults will drop off like dead leaves when their time comes."

-John Ruskin

Slacker . . .

2007-12-09T09:22:00.000-05:00

OK, OK, I know I've been a real slacker when it comes to updating the Blog. The problem is that life comes at me too fast and furious sometimes to get it all in here in a timely fasion. With the winter season comes a slower pace (for me, anyway). Over the next few weeks, hopefully I'll be able to get all the great photos and stories in here so you can see what's been shaking around the Studio the past few months.

Enough beating myself up . . . on with the show!!

Did I Mention . . .

2007-10-08T08:54:00.000-04:00

. . . that we have some fantastic students in the stained glass classes? Here is the latest batch of finished projects. . .

This is Suzi's first project. She incorporated a hand blown rondel into the center of her panel. I think it turned out great! Way to go, Suzi!!

Ron is turning out projects like a man possessed! Here is his latest creation. Another job well done, Ron!
Once again, my students have produced some awesome work. I'm so proud of them all!

Yet Another Star Student

2007-09-11T09:17:00.000-04:00

Pamela recently completed her first stained glass panel. She did a fantastic job with the glass selections and the fabrication of the panel. I think the oak frame really sets it off.

Here is another shot of the same panel, with back lighting . . .

Congratulations on a job beautifully done!!

Did I mention before just how proud I am of these students?!?!? WOW!

Summer Art Camp Video

2007-09-06T16:49:00.000-04:00

Thought ya’ll might be interested in seeing the movie clip that one of our Images compatriots made during the Summer Art Camp. She says it is still pretty rough, but I think it is delightful!! Hope it comes through for you. ENJOY!!

More Star Students

2007-08-27T09:11:00.000-04:00

More Star Students may be found shining brightly at Sookie's stained glass classes . . .

This is Shelley's first leaded panel. What a fabulous job she did on it!! I don't think a professional glass artist could have done any better.

The panel looks wonderful in her studio. Even though Shelley didn't want to have her picture taken, she looks lovely also!! (I had to threaten her with bodily harm to get this shot!!)

This is Tina with her new pride and joy. I must say that I am astounded that a first timer produced this exqusite little Volkswagen. Tina is so focused and precise in her work, you'd never know that this was her first project.

My students, I am so proud of all of them. They sure do keep me humble!!

Carpal Tunnel Surgery Update

2007-08-17T07:04:00.000-04:00

Update on Craig's condition . . . from email sent by Craig to friends and family:

I’m scheduled to show-up at the surgery center tomorrow morning (8/16) at 8:30… probably go under the knife at 9:00 or 9:30AM. It should be very straight forward and the actual operation will only last 10 to 15 minutes. I’m expecting to be back home before noon…

I engaged an attorney to represent me with the insurance companies… After the initial interview, it sounds like my insurance company hasn’t been totally up-front and honest. Their discrepancies add up to more than just ignorance. The attorney seems to think that I have a good case for pain and suffering. They think I will probably have to sue or negotiate a settlement with the claimants insurance company to collect my out of pocket expenses for stuff like me getting home, shipping my bike, pain and suffering, etc…

The lawyers will work on a contingency bases and collect a third of the settlement as payment for services rendered. Further, they indicated that my insurance company is responsible for all out of pocket medical expense incured (according to the lawyer) and my insurance company has lead me to believe that the other insurance company is responsible for this coverage. I’m going to let them hash the law out, as I really don’t know.

My goal was to not get attorneys involved, but at this point I have no choice. I’m figuring that the lawyers will get all they possibly can, because that’s how they get paid. This company does nothing but vehicle accidents, so I hope they have they have a clue!

That’s all for now,

Craig (under the knife again) Moore

The surgery went fine. Craig is bouncing back nicely and should be back up to full steam ahead today. It sure will be nice to have all this behind us!

Star Students

2007-08-16T13:24:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to show a few photos of works that have been completed to date in my Stained Glass Classes at Images Studio. Keep in mind, these are all beginners!!

Here's Mary Beth's first piece. She framed it in a lovely cherry frame by Northern Hardwoods. STUNNING!

Here is Ron showing off his first panel. It turned out GREAT!! Way to go, Ron!!

Mary Beth is on fire!! Here is her second project. She designed the pattern herself (with a tiny little bit of help) from the Alpha Romeo logo. She framed it in brass and treated the solder lines to match. I am so impressed with how beautifully she's coming along!! You go, girl!

Check back for more updates . . . the fun is just beginning!!

The Patient Patient

2007-08-10T06:47:00.001-04:00

Update on Craig's condition . . . from email sent by Craig to friends and family:

I went to the orthopedic surgeon again this morning. The clavicle healing is coming along nicely and we are pleased of this fact. I’m basically on another 3 weeks of light duty… not as light as I have been for the previous 3 weeks but light duty none the less. Mainly I can’t lift things heavier than 15 pounds and not raise my hand overhead. I’m going to start driving again and this is a huge plus for me and Kay…

The decision was made to repair my carpal tunnel through surgery next Thursday the 16th. We knew before the recent testing and it was confirmed by the testing that I have median nerve entrapment in the right wrist (carpal tunnel). This probably has a lot to do with my right hand feeling strange or slightly numb. This procedure should take 14 days for healing and that will put me right at the end of my clavicle light duty as well. It just makes sense to go ahead and do it now, as it alone will require the light duty and related healing time. Do I look forward to it?? Hell no!! But, I (we) believe it’s the best thing to do and I’d might just as well get it all taken
care of now vs. waiting until later.

The decision to remove the plate and screws from my clavicle will be made later. This typically happens 6 months after the initial surgery and many people don’t have the hardware removed at all. If the decision is made to have it removed, I will have to be very careful again for around 6 weeks until the 8 screw holes have a chance to heal. I don’t really see much downside to leaving it alone and orthopedic surgeon didn’t seem to think it would be a huge issue if I were to break the clavicle on the same side again with the hardware in place.

I’m still getting better every day and with the clavicle and carpal tunnel healing I should be out of the woods by the end of September.

That’s all for now,

Craig

Louie the SEGDI Puppy

2007-08-10T06:45:00.000-04:00

As some of you already know, we "Puppy Camped" a few Smooth Coated Collie puppies for Southeastern Guide Dogs last year. (You can see them in the photo section to the right of the screen.) In Puppy Camping, we keep the guide dog puppy for two weeks. This serves several purposes. It gives the Puppy Raiser a break from the stresses of raising a guide dog puppy. It gets the puppy used to working for a different handler. It gives us a chance to get an independent evaluation of the puppy. And finally, it gives us an opportunity to trouble shoot any problems the puppy may be having.

Since I am pretty familiar with the behavior of herding breeds, I was asked to Puppy Camp the Smooth Coated Collies who were being raised by the Georgia Puppy Raiser group. Louie is pictured at left. We just recently got word from Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc. that Louie has been career changed. Seems he liked to chase motorcycles. . . not exactly a desirable trait for a guide dog!

Louie has been placed with an employee of the Dan Marino Foundation, who has an Autistic son. Louie will go to work with her and visit with the kids , one on one. He will then go home with her and be a companion to her Autistic son. When they initially met, Louie was great. They fell in love with him the minute he walked in the door! Louie was placed as a therapy dog.

I want to send a special THANK YOU out to Louie's Puppy Raiser, Jennifer, who did a fantastic job with him. She learned a lot, and always worked so hard to ensure that he turned out well. It warms my heart to know that Louie will be out there helping a lot of people as a direct result of her efforts. NICELY DONE, Jennifer!!

The Broken Old Man

2007-07-20T07:40:00.001-04:00

Craig had surgery yesterday to repair the broken clavicle from his motorcycle accident. (Read about all the gory details in Detour Ahead.) I am happy to say that the surgery went well. He is very sore from the incision, etc., but I'm sure that things will improve rapidly from here on out.

Modern medicine is pretty incredible. They put in a titanium plate and screws, sewed him up and sent him home in a total of around 3-1/2 hours. Amazing.

Last night was pretty sleepless for both of us. I'm positive we'll be napping some today. Maybe things will go a little smoother this weekend as the surgery site settles down and starts to heal.

He said that the level of pain is greatly reduced over what he's been through for the last 19 days. Some of the feeling and strength is already returning to his hand.

Thanks to everyone out there who has kept us in their prayers. I'm certain it is making a difference.

Notable Quote

2007-07-18T11:16:00.000-04:00

"A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort."

-Herm Albright

Detour Ahead

2007-07-15T08:13:00.000-04:00

Well, I had a plan for July. . . it went something like this . . .

Craig was going to Chicago for his sister Karen's wedding. While he was there, he was going to visit with his brother, Scott, and Scott's family. Craig's Mom and Dad were also coming in for the wedding, so it was going to be a grand time for them all. Craig and Jeremy (nephew) had spent months planning out a trip on the motorcycle to visit 12 light houses around Lake Michigan. They were quite excited about the trip.

While Craig was away, I was planning on participating in the 4th of July celebration in Moreland. Images Studio / Gallery was giving out free watermelon, lemonade and ice water, as well as providing free children's art activities. We were going to display our art and promote our classes.

After Craig returned from Chicago, I was planning to fly to Boston for a week to visit my friend, Aileen, who I haven't seen in over 13 years. We were going on a camping trip to Mohawk State Park with her triplet teenage boys and her almost teenage daughter. We've had this trip planned for more than a year. The best laid plans . . .

All went well for a while. Craig made it up to Chicago safely. The Light House Tour started right on schedule. The first day (7/1) was winding down, when some fellow on a scooter made a u-turn right into their path. Craig did all he could to avoid the scooter, but he ultimately hit the back of it. The collision threw him and Jeremy off the motorcycle. Thankfully, Jeremy wasn't injured. The scooter rider wasn't badly injured, as far as we know. Craig sustained a broken clavicle, five broken ribs and a bruised lung.

Needless to say, Craig ended up in the hospital in Escanaba, MI. They didn't feel that their little hospital had a trauma unit that was able to care for him adequately, so they transferred him to a bigger hospital in Marquette, MI. This required a 70 mile ambulance ride at about 11 PM on Sunday (7/1) night. Scott called me around 10 PM while he was on his way to the hospital in Escanaba to pick up Jeremy. They planned to stay overnight in Escanaba. After that, Craig called and I was able to keep updated on his progress to Marquette, where they planned to keep him at least over night. Surprisingly enough, I didn't get a lot of sleep that night.

On Monday (7/2), Scott and Jeremy travelled to Marquette to spring Craig from the hospital. Then they made the 5+ hour ride to Chicago to Scott's house. Craig tried to take a shower when they got home, and quickly discovered that he was in too much pain to do that. He decided that he would just lay down to sleep and worry about a shower the next day. When he tried to lay down, he said that he heard his ribs crackling and crunching, and that on a scale of 1 to 10, his pain level was about a 13. His Dad took one look at him and called an ambulance to return him to the hospital for some more chest x-rays. He ended up sleeping in a recliner later that night back at Scott's house, with a timer and pain meds close by.

By Tuesday (7/3) night, it was pretty clear that Craig wasn't going to be able to go to the wedding. He was so uncomfortable, he just wanted to come home. Around 5 PM, he called saying, "Come get me!" So, off I go to Chicago!!

I didn't have a chance to make arrangements to board the dogs, so I loaded everyone up in the van, and my friend Mary Beth and I took off for Chicago at 3 AM on July 4th. We drove straight through, dropping her off at Midway airport for a flight back to Atlanta. (I owe her BIG for driving up there with me. I couldn't have driven straight through if not for her.) I actually made it to Scott's house in time for dinner on July 4th. Craig was as bad, if not worse, than I expected. It was obvious that this was going to be a rocky ride to get through this one.

We stayed there at Scott's house for a day, and began our trek home on Friday (7/6). We finally made it home Saturday night (7/7). The van ride wasn't as bad as I had expected it to be. He was able to get in and out of it easily enough, and didn't seem to be in much more discomfort than usual while riding. Trying to lay down to sleep at the hotel was another matter entirely! I have no experience with this kind of thing, so I'm not a lot of help when it comes to finding a way for him to lay down and get up comfortably. Painful doesn't even begin to describe it.

So, now we're home and waiting for surgery to repair the clavicle. That is scheduled for Thursday (7/19), provided the lung has healed up enough to tolerate the surgery. I'm hoping that the recovery will end up being less painful for the little fella than the last week of waiting has been.

That's all for now. Please keep Craig in your thoughts and prayers during his recovery.

Recent Watercolor Paintings

2007-07-01T15:45:00.001-04:00

This painting was done from a photo we took at the Shiloh National Cemetery. The trip involved an overnight "Ride to Eat" with some motorcycle friends to a catfish restaurant somewhere near Shiloh, TN. It was a lovely day in May 2006. I thought the geometric patterns made by the rows of headstones was really interesting.
The next painting was done from a photograph taken by Luann Harp at another motorcycle RTE function. She took the photo at the gardens surrounding the Jack Daniel's Distillery. I thought the photo was lovely and would make a nice painting.

The last painting is of NiteStar's True Blue Moore, CGC, TT. It was done from a photo taken ringside at the 2005 ASCA Nationals, where Callie went 4th Place Altered Open Blue Merle Bitch. I was especially proud of Miss Dog that day! I titled this one "It's All About Me".

Recent Stained Glass Projects

2007-06-30T07:05:00.001-04:00

I have been horrible about keeping things "updated" with Newsletters this year! I am hoping that this Blog will make that a little easier and more manageable for me. Here are some projects that have been completed this year . . . Sookie has been a busy, busy gal!!

This piece was done for Dixie. She had installed shutters in the pass through between her kitchen and living room. The panel was designed as a "shutter topper". I think it turned out really well, and complements her decor beautifully.

The next two suncatchers were made for Cindy. She gave them as gifts to friends and family. I liked the Calla Lily pattern so much, I modified it to use as a piece in my art shows. (Maybe I'll put a photo of that up one of these days!)

The Lady Bug has also made it into the art show offerings . . . it has been pretty popular and is frequently purchased as a gift.

Rusty commissioned me to do a House Number panel to hang on the porch of her home. (Last I heard, though, it hasn't made it out of her living room!! She has it displayed on an easel, and says it is too pretty to hang outside just now!!)

When I delivered the panel to Rusty, Katherine saw it and commissioned me to do a Magnolia panel for her, too. She didn't want the house number, but was intending to hang it beside her front door. I thought "Welcome" would work for this application.

I used a foil overlay for the lettering. I think this worked out splendidly! I will definitely use that technique again. You can put in plenty of detail without worrying about cut lines.

Finally, I was able to finish the "River Center" logo which was commissioned months ago by Enoch Morris, the Executive Director of the River Center for the Performing Arts in Columbus, GA. You should check out their website: http://www.rivercenter.org/ It is a happening place. They host extremely professional productions and have a lovely, elegant facility. I will be exhibiting there at WinterFest 2007 from November 30th through December 2nd. WinterFest 2007 is an Art and Fine Craft Show that will be held in conjunction with the concerts and events focused around the Christmas celebration. It is an event not to be missed!

That's all for now! Stay tuned for more updates . . .

199th Light Infantry Brigade

2007-06-28T19:31:00.001-04:00

I mentioned in a previous post that I had a customer visit scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. Here is the piece that the customer was picking up.

The plaque reads:
"In Commemoration of the Reflagging of The 199th Infantry Brigade
Presented by the Veterans of the 199th Light Infantry Brigade - Vietnam 1966-1970
To the Soldiers of the 199th Infantry Brigade
27 June 2007, Ft Benning, Georgia
REDCATCHER! The 199th Light Infantry Brigade Association".

This is another one of those jobs to which it is a great honor to contribute something. I really don't know how I managed to get so blessed with meaningful jobs, but I surely do appreciate each and every one of them.

Hombre Goes to Summer Art Camp

2007-06-28T07:33:00.000-04:00

I took the dogs with me to Summer Art Camp on Tuesday, because I had class that night and a customer visit in the afternoon. I didn't think I would be able to get home before 10 PM, so they camped out in the glass studio all day.

At lunch, Hombre, who is great with children came out for a visit. At one point, he had about six kids petting him all at the same time. He looked up at me with the biggest grin on his face, and that little butt just a wigglin'!

Here is the cartoon story that one of the kids wrote about him yesterday. It is too cool!

A Pleasant Surprise

2007-06-25T09:15:00.001-04:00

Well, when we left to visit our friends Bob and Devona in Covington yesterday, we didn't really intend to come home with a dog . . .

For some time now, Devona has been looking to place Hombre, and was waiting for just the right situation for him. At 6 years old, having already achieved his Working Trial Championship (WTCH), Devona wanted to place Hombre in a home where he could be "just a dog" and have plenty of individual attention. He gets along well with other dogs, loves people and children, and is all around a great dog. He should be fine for light competition, maybe Rally Obedience or Agility, but doesn't enjoy the pressure of serious trialing. That fits pretty well with our life, as I don't have a lot of time for serious training anymore . . . since the glass business has taken off!

Craig and I have known Hombre for most of his life, and always have found him to be a pleasant, well mannered dog. He has a beautiful, glossy black coat, and is a sturdy, sound dog . . . a nice example of the breed.

Craig has always especially liked Hombre. As I found out on the drive home last night, he has entertained the thoughts of taking Hombre home for a couple of years. Who knew?!?!

Callie and Peggy Lee (The Girls) have known Hombre as long as we have, and they love him. They have always enjoyed romping and playing with the handsome fellow. Guess it was about time we got another man around the house!!

Stained Glass Classes at Images Studio

2007-06-24T11:12:00.001-04:00

I hope the new year is rolling along happily for everyone out there. I know that things around here are hopping, as usual!

Most of you have already heard that my friend and fellow artist, Deborah Smith, has recently opened Images Gallery in the booming metropolis of Moreland. The Gallery showcases local artists, and is packed to the brim with the finest quality pottery, paintings, stained glass (of course!), photography, hand made soaps and other original creations. Moreland is conveniently located just south of downtown Newnan off Highway 29 with easy access to I-85. Images Gallery, located at 21 Main Street, Moreland, is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

http://www.imagesgallery.biz/

Deborah has also secured a building just two doors down from Images Gallery in Moreland, a small portion of which will be used for her photography studio. Deborah is generously providing the remainder of the Images Studio building to be used as classrooms for teaching art classes. There are currently classes forming for stained glass, mosaics, wire art jewelry, children’s drawing, children’s and adult watercolors, calligraphy and scherenschnitte. For more information on any of these classes, please call Images Gallery at 770-254-1555. You may also contact me (770-254-0349) for more information on the stained glass and mosaic classes.

Deborah has assigned an entire (enormous) classroom that will be dedicated to stained glass. My husband, Craig, and I worked feverishly to install lighting (five 8-ft fluorescent fixtures hung on a 14 ft ceiling!) and build giant work tables. I will be putting the finishing touches on the teaching studio over the course of the next few months, but I am already very pleased with how it is coming along. It is already a functional glass studio!

If you’re interested, I can send you a copy of the Stained Glass Course descriptions and current calendar of stained glass classes. I am very interested to hear your feedback on what types of classes you would be interested in taking.

I have changed the format of the classes a little as things have developed. I initially thought a "structured" class would be the thing to do. After all, that's the way everyone else does it. . . I quickly realized through your feedback, that this type of environment doesn't lend itself to our present lifestyles. I am now doing more of a “free form” class. Basically, in the studio, we have students working on different projects at different skill levels at different stages of completion . . . all at the same time. I find that this lets me give people very individualized attention, as not everyone needs help all at once. Also, we’re not all trying to do the same thing, so we don’t have as much competition for the equipment.

With that said, you can come to class and chose whatever project you’d like to do from my book of patterns. Or bring a pattern, or picture of something you’d like to do. I’ll help you design a working pattern for your project, and away you’ll go. I have glass and supplies available for purchase, and you are welcome to use my tools. If you want to bring in supplies and glass from an outside source, that’s fine, too.

As far as payment, you can send a deposit to reserve your spot in class. The first class, you’ll purchase a block of classes. Depending on what project you’d like to do, you may want to get 4 or 6 or 8. (I do offer a discount for the purchase of 10 classes. Purchase 10 and you’ll get the 11th at no charge.)

I offer a flexible schedule. If you pay for 8 classes, you get 8 classes, whether it is over the course of the next 4 weeks, or 10 months. If you need to miss a class, no problem! “Maintain rigid flexibility” is my motto.

Currently, classes are offered at the following days/times. I will be adding more classes as these fill. I want to maintain a small class size . . . around 6 people or so.

Tuesday 6 PM – 9 PM
Thursday 10 AM – 1 PM
Saturday 10 AM – 1 PM

If you haven’t guessed already, I’m very excited about this new opportunity. Even if you can’t take a class right now, do drop in for a visit. I look forward to seeing you at the Studio, or at an upcoming Art Show in the near future!

Who is Sookie?

2007-06-24T11:03:00.001-04:00

My Father,
a life-long perfectionist and stained glass hobbyist for 30 years, introduced me to stained glass in 1999. With that introduction, I was instilled with the passion, the drive & the determination to become a proficient glass artist.

With the initial introduction by my father, I abandoned the sterile, analytical world arising from a degree in chemistry, and fell seamlessly into the passionate landscape of artistic expression. I never looked back. My continuing growth has ultimately resulted in my evolution into a highly skilled glass artisan.

Since my father has always lovingly referred to me as “Sookie,” it is in his honor that my business is named Sookie’s Glass Art Studio.

40th Anniversary Present

2007-06-24T10:37:00.000-04:00

This piece was completed on Saturday (6/23). It was made for a couple I met at the Virginia Highlands Summerfest back in June. Their friends are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary, and this is to be a present for them.

I used elements from existing patterns to fabricate this sweet little suncatcher. Note the heart shape formed by the joined beaks and the twisted wire which connects the flower to the hummingbird bodies.

It is simple, but I like it.

Welcome

2007-06-24T10:14:00.001-04:00

Blogging is a new thing for me. I know just enough about computers and the internet to be completely dangerous! I thought this seemed like a fun thing to do . . . so here goes!!

I have intended to do a newsletter at least four times per year. That worked in 2006, but this year has been so crazy, I STILL haven't managed to get out a single newsletter. Maybe this will be a format that I can manage to update frequently, and will hopefully, be somewhat interesting . . .

I plan to update my students and customers on the latest happenings around my studio, including my glass work, watercolor pieces, dogs and family events. As always, comments and suggestions are welcome.

That's all for now!
Kay