Lampwork is the technique of transforming molten glass into beads, sculptures, and other works of art. This ancient craft was originally performed through the use of spirit lamps. By raising the temperature of the flame with a bellows, similar to blacksmithing, ancient lamp workers could melt and shape glass.
Artisans living in Murano, Italy have been creating glass art for centuries. Their techniques were kept secret from the outside world and only shared by passing down the knowledge within families. This knowledge of the trade was judicially guarded by requiring that all artisans remain on the island of Murano all their lives. This isolation from the rest of the world sealed the secrets of the work of the lamps, ensuring the sustenance of each generation.
I guess you are now wondering how did lampwork come to the United States? Some 30 years ago, various artists visiting Italy were intrigued by Murano glass beads. Individually, they return home and begin experimenting with glass to create beads for themselves. There were practically no lamp equipment such as torches, glass or techniques in America. The torches had to be modified; American stained glass windows of the turn of the century development became the preferred and the techniques were developed strictly through experimentation. Slowly the secrets of the ancients gave way to this small group. Unlike in Italy, knowledge was freely shared among this group and techniques grew rapidly. The original handful of artists then began sharing their ideas with anyone interested. Today, fire glass formation is spreading across the United States like wildfire. Lampwork is even taught in universities.
I joined the movement about 12 years ago, when the knowledge and techniques were still in their infancy. Due to my artistic training, I approached the lamp as another artistic medium to express myself. Learning burn techniques has been the most difficult medium to master. One must understand the chemistry of glass. Glass colors are created by mixing chemicals, while paint is based on mixing colors of pigments. The second obstacle was the learning curve of Murano techniques. Unlike painting, where virtually anyone can pick up a brush and paint, lamp work is achieved through the accumulation of techniques that are slowly mastered.
An artistic expression in glass only emerges after years of experience in understanding the interactions of glass chemistry and the fragile, illusory dance of glass in flame. All my 40 years of experience and artistic knowledge were challenged by my adventures in the world of lamps. It only took me to make my first account to know that I was in love with the llama. Today, I only create the things I love: flowers and sea life beads. Come share with me the fascinating world of glass.