KERRY ELLEN SILVER

CONTACT KERRY HERE.

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I have always loved art glass and have collected a few special pieces through the years. While visiting the British Museum a few years ago, I was fascinated with glass on exhibit that was created centuries ago. I'm a great admirer of more contemporary glassmakers...Renee Lalique, Steuben, Emile Galle, Dale Chihully, and renowned local artist (and my cousin) Justin Ginsberg, whose work continues to evolve and push the limits of what's possible in glass. 

 

An ancient form called pate de verre is my favorite. It is glass formed in a mold using a paste made of finely ground glass and a binding agent - and it has a sugary, opaque appearance. My favorite pate de verre artist will always be Ellen Abbott, whose deep appreciation for nature is reflected in the delicate pieces she creates. Her work often has an underlying message, as well. She carves a wax model, which she encases in plaster, then steams out the wax - leaving a cavity in which to pack the glass paste. After firing, the mold must be broken to remove the finished piece. 

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I've been working in kiln-formed glass since 2006. My first project was the front door of the house I was renovating. I turned an old, unattractive wooden door into a work of art! And so my admiration for glass became my personal passion. Since then, I have continued to study and expand my skills and knowledge. I'm fascinated by the magic that happens by controlling volume, temperature and time - and ways glass can be manipulated using that knowledge and the right tools. 

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Creating La Hoya Glass Artists was a dream come true for me. Mary, Rosanne and I each bring different strengths and experience to the studio. And each of the other amazing artists in our community has special gifts. We collaborate, we share, we critique, we encourage, we love and appreciate each other, and we have a great time together. Our community is a gift and something I'm so proud to have had a role in creating.

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With gratitude,

Kerry