Historical
Sculpture
Blown/Plate Glass Constructions
My earliest pieces of glass sculpture utilized the blown glass form of an egg, which was then divided by a cut plate of glass. These forms were then put in relation to each other by suspending them on a larger plate of glass.
Parity Variants
My “Parity Variants” are a visual manifestation of concepts and theories in physics regarding the relationship of entities viewed in different dimensions, known as parity invariance. These sculptures explore the different possibilities of existence of these seemingly opposite but equal forms. Angular and organic forms are reflected and transmitted on either side of the large plate of glass, as they both contrast and meld together the opposite of parity invariance.
Timbertotems
“Timbertotems” reflect a period of rapid growth of my ideas and the growth in scale of my work. They represent the best aspects of Humankind's development in relationship to Nature. The architectural elements of these pieces are inspired by timber frame construction, a most honorable, strong, and beautiful form of building. They are also inspired by young plants rapidly shooting skyward seeking light. As I was creating this series of sculpture, I was in the process of building the new timber frame home of Heath Brook Studio.
Jazz
In my “Jazz” series of sculptures, the "Timbertotems" begin to bloom and unfold. Sculptures like "Red Monk," "Dance of the Spirits", and "Bittersweet" evoke the rhythm and movement of music, especially jazz. Music has always been a major influence in my work, and the titles of these pieces are from the titles of some of my favorite jazz compositions. The horn form is, in part, a tribute to the improvisational nature of the music, and its relationship to the dance of glassblowing.
Transformation
In my “Transformation” series I am combining wood and stone with blown and solid glass. Glass continues to be the focal point of the work, with the other materials playing a supporting role. The base of these sculptures is mica schist, a sedimentary rock that was the bottom of the ocean 400 million years ago. Pieces of carved cherry burl hold the glass. The figuration and decay of this wood are caused by a bacteria which disrupts its normal growth. The juxtaposition of these materials provides a basis for the expansion of our existence. We are from the ooze that is now this stone, supported by Nature in all Her beauty. May our spirits soar!
Dancing Trees
My “Dancing Tree” sculptures are inspired by the folkloric tradition of Afro-Cuban percussion and dance. The music that came from Africa to the Caribbean and the Americas is based not on the individual but on the group efforts of the community. It takes everyone in the group, playing their part, to create the music. I find a strong correlation between this community ritual and the teamwork of the Italian glassblowing tradition. These pieces are blown and hot-worked solid glass, mounted on cast glass bases. With these dancers, I celebrate the expression of community and its music, rituals and identity.
