And it's a wrap.

I have followed this project from inception to completion and now it's a wrap. The idea for this Tree of Life came from Tami Harris who has been a chaplain in the Heritage School residential treatment center since 1989.  . She was careful not to leave any denomination out when she offered me the opportunity to design the window for the center. I enjoyed building this window of beauty and significance.

 Tami explains " When the Heritage Worship Center was to undergo a bit of renovation it was suggested that stained glass would be a wonderful addition. As the Worship Center is for students of all faiths, several ideas for the stained glass were considered. Spirituality being the golden thread in the tapestry of Heritage was a runner up. We pictured a white fabric folded and draped with a golden piece of thin glass moving through the fabric. (I would still like that one done for something.) Another idea was to have many different religious symbols in one piece of art. In the end it was decided that the Tree of Life would be a wonderful addition to the Heritage Worship Center, as it is recognized by people of many faiths. For those who may not appreciate it spiritually, they will still enjoy the beauty of the artwork."

Here the installers are inspecting their work and admiring the finished product. 

The construction included building a new wall and a space for the new stained glass transom.

A frame was built to house the window.

The window started coming together 

After foiling, soldering and cleaning, the "Tree of Life" is ready to install.

It truly looks beautiful. To see a video of the process check our youtube channel. 

I've got your back

I am a stained glass artist and also a yoga instructor. I have found out that one compliments the other. After days of cutting, grinding , soldering and cleaning glass projects my back starts to complain. I have learned a few tricks to feel better that I would like to share with you. My training is from Bodhi Yoga in Utah which has benefited me in many ways since my classes. You are welcome to join any of the classes offered there. I teach on Friday mornings at 8:30 am. After some gentle stretching and meditative flow through yoga positions you will be ready to return to your routine. These positions are also helpful just before bedtime to relax your mind from the stress of the day.

Child's pose feels so good on your lower back

Folding forward is another good stretch. If you can't go all the way to the floor, just go to your edge. 

Hold on to your feet and rock gently back and forth. This is like a massage from the inside out.

Sorry this is fuzzy but you can still see the pose. Forward folds are a great stretch. This is good to do just before you get into bed. 

Twists feel great as you unwind your spine. 

Don't forget a full body twist 

This pose is perfect for letting go of the days stress. You can put your legs up the wall for extra support. If I wake up during the night and can't get back to sleep I relax into this pose and it really helps.

Pulling your legs close feels awesome to your lower back. You will be ready to get back to work after this mindful practice. Don't forget to give yourself some time in Savasana (relaxing with your arms to your sides and your legs outstretched). Just allow your mind to let go of daily thoughts and renew your body, mind and spirit. For more information check out www.gobodhiyoga.com 

Start to finish. Book sculpture and Cherry Blossoms

Some projects in the works 

From start to finish I enjoy building stained glass windows and mosaics. When I start something new I can't stop thinking about it. This is the mosaic that is going in a big book sculpture. It has been a blast putting symbolism into each part of the project. This mosaic is revealed as the book is opened. It is life from the darkness of the womb to the passion and splendor of everyday living. At the end of life we are reminded of the importance of  spirituality, family and our basic values. Then, inevitably, we are drawn to the light and are able to find out what is on the other side of what we know.

I love the border. I can't wait to get it painted to get the full affect, 

The grout changes from black to white. I wasn't sure that was going to work but I like how it turned out.

The cover is a window of Dogwoods. This symbol is all about new life and beginning. 

   

Cherry Blossom Windows

There is a lucky bathroom waiting for these lovely windows.

We have been working on 4 Cherry blossom windows. This is the last one. The finish of one project just means the beginning of another. Du "debut a' la fin.

Wedding glass

Adorning the tables at my beautiful Granddaughter's reception were some wedding glass Moravian stars. The simple lines and clear textured glass added the right blend of class and elegance. They were enhanced by the deep blue tablecloth. The flickering candle was the finishing touch. I was able to have Sammy and Caleb in my heart as I was building each star.

I loved the simple and outdoor feel of the decorations.

Here is an up close look at the star.

Even the refreshments were fresh and simple.

I was honored to be a part of their beautiful and romantic evening. 

A creative diversion

Stained glass is my medium of choice. So when I got the opportunity this weekend to try a diversion of creative expression I was intrigued. A friend and I visited St. George, Utah and learned some amazing and fun art. I found that creating in another medium enhanced my own creativity and opened my eyes to different art forms. It was an artist retreat and I highly recommend it.

Here are some of the tools we used to blow out a chicken egg. He has also used duck and ostrich eggs.

One of the activities we  participated in was learning the beautiful art of  Ukrainian Easter eggs. Gary Miner was our talented teacher.

This is where you can order tools for your own adventure.

Working with specified tools, the wax is adhered to the blown egg. There are books with patterns to choose from.

The dyes can last for many years. 

Between each application of wax, the egg is immersed in the dye.

This magnifying glass came in handy.

After numerous dips into various colors the wax is melted off to reveal a glorious work of fragile art.

Here is my egg in progress.

I was impressed with the precision it took to create the lovely patterns.

My lines are a bit wobbly but I had so much fun learning this amazing art. It turned out pretty well for my first one I think.

Stepping out of my comfort zone of stained glass for an afternoon caused me to think about art in another way. Try something new to spice up your way of thinking.

Fused Easter Eggs to brighten your party table

Once in a while you just have to use your talent to have some fun.
 David and I put together some glass Easter eggs to brighten our party table the other night.
 I fused some fun colors on an egg shaped piece of glass and David drilled holes in them so I could string some colored ribbon.

If you try this, be sure to drill while the glass is submerged in water. 

It's a tricky business since there is a chance of breaking your little masterpiece.

David is being very careful.

Here they are hanging in the kitchen before the dinner party. Be careful to use glass of the same COE so you won't have cracking.

They are cute little decorations for your Easter table. We happened to have our party on St. Patrick's Day.

Here is the Easter tree. I found some perfect lilac branches. They had tiny buds which added to the decoration.

Here is a close up of the fused designs.

The table was lovely. Thank you to our friend and decorator, Kathryn S. Allen.

Here is one of the eggs on the napkin. Each guest was invited to take home their cute egg.

The dinner was a success, the rousing game of Pictionary was great fun and the table was amazing. If you would like more ideas of how to use stained glass in your decorating be sure to message me.