Impact is an excellent example of how combining a variety of different, simple concepts can lead to a very exciting piece of fused glass art.
I love this piece because it fuses a strong linear design, an irregular shape, and a cool color palate. Together the mix of ideas result in a strikingly unique finished piece of art. Another plus is this dramatic design is easy to construct. Let me show you how.
Selecting a pleasing color palate is key to making simple designs more appealing. I selected a specific range of colors and then repeated those colors in different shades. I used light gray and dark grey. To that I added tropical shades of blue and airy greens. I used clear glass to separate the colors so they would show brightly. The clear also enhances the visual depth that makes this type of fabrication so attractive.
Tip: When assembling glass on the edge I purposely select some opal glass colors and compliment them with light, transparent colors. The light transparent color allow light to pass through and therefore, you see a tint of color. If you use medium or dark transparent colors instead, you risk the strips looking black. That can be really disappointing if your intention was velvety, rich color.
Impact is made with strips of glass arranged on edge in the kiln. This project measures 14 inch x 11 inch. I cut a bunch of ¼ inch wide and 12 inch long strips of glass from my selected color palate. I then cut the strips and arranged the colors to make a feathered pattern. Clear glass strips are tucked between the colors to ensure the colors are bright. As I assembled the project, I staggered the strips to create a soft, irregular edge on two sides.
The project is fired to a full fuse temperature using the guide below. I was pleased with way the glass looked after fusing. I considered slumping it over a barrel shaped mold but then decided that wouldn’t add pizazz to the piece. After cutting all those strips and carefully planning the graduated color arrangement the piece deserved a more interesting finish.
I laid the fused glass on my wave mold parallel to her outside edges. That was better, but a spark was still missing. Then, I tired arranging the fused glass diagonally on the mold. I hoped, in this position the waves would compliment the soft edges and draw attention to the pattern and glass colors. I wasn’t completely sure I’d like the results. I did know I had to try something unconventional to bring out the special characteristic of the design.
The glass was slumped over the stainless steel mold using the guide below.
The results were better than expected. The wavy shape added to the beauty of the glass. It accentuated the irregular edge and gave the overall design continuity. Plus, the stylized profile inspired me to hang the art diagonally on the wall where it would be enjoyed from a perspective that further flattered the finished artwork.
A little ingenuity goes a long way. I didn’t do anything I haven’t done 1000 times before. What made this project different and therefore fresh was the pairing of old techniques in new ways. Give it a try. You might just make a dramatic Impact of your own.
This project is 14 inch x 11 inch. I’m confident it can be made smaller and still deliver the same exciting results.
I want to thank my awesome daughter, Niki for helping select the colors and assembling this project.
Wherever you are in your artistic journey you’re doing great! We’re all learning new things every day. Keep going. Enjoy the journey.
Impact as seen in my new, Creative Shapes video. This is only one of 8 fun projects in my full length video. Download it now at www.LisaJVogt.com
Watch the, Impact YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lvM4m8mnho
Fusing Guide
Segment 1: Ramp 300 F/hr to 1300 and hold 30 min.
Segment 2: Ramp 500 F/hr to 1465 and hold 10 min.
Segment 3: Ramp 9999(AFAP*) to 960 and hold 40 min.
Segment 4: Cool to room temperature.
*As fast as possible
Slumping Guide
Segment 1: Ramp 300 F/hr to 1265 and hold 10 min.
Segment 2: Ramp 9999(AFAP*) to 960 and hold 40 min.
Segment 3: Cool to room temperature.
*As fast as possible
NOTE: Kilns fire differently. Test fire these guides in your kiln and then make adjustments as needed.
Happy Fusing!
Lisa
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NEW “Watercolor” Technique Webinar!
You’re home. I’m home. Let’s get together and fuse glass.
Watercolor Techniques & Advanced Fusing Design Webinar, May 28, 2020
Take your fused glass designs to an exciting new level!
Learn how to make gorgeous, vividly decorated nature themed fused glass designs in this comprehensive webinar. Master the art of design, pattern, and color.
Join me and I’ll show you how quickly and easily you can ramp up the visual intricacy of your work in just a few steps. I’ll share my personally developed, “watercolor style,” approach to shading and highlighting glass.
You will love the easy-to-follow instruction and seeing how I create elaborately detailed works of art with a gorgeous three-dimensional flair.
In this webinar you will learn how to use advanced artistic techniques like a pro. Beginner, intermediate and advanced fusers alike will enjoy applying the many simple, yet effective techniques I share in this in-depth, live event.
Fusing for the Adventurous Webinar, June 9, 2020
Register here: https://www.glasspatterns.com/glass-patterns-quarterly-store/product/1449-fusing-for-the-adventurous-with-lisa-vogt-june-9-2020.html
Get ready to push boundaries, challenge trusted techniques and enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities. Join me in this comprehensive hands-on webinar and learn how easily you can put tried and true methods to use in unlikely, innovative ways to create original art.
You’ll learn how to successfully employ different techniques to produce dramatic effects and take your work to an exciting, new level of sophistication.
Beginner and advanced fusers alike will find inspiration, motivation and renewed artistic freedom from the combination of techniques shown. In addition, you’ll receive a detailed outline with project specific guidelines and my custom firing guides.
Armed with your newfound skills, you’ll be eager to experiment and incorporate these techniques to turn your creative visions into reality. You’ll have the burning desire, and the cool confidence, to take your passion to greater heights.
Now Registering!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop
September 22-25, 2020
Register today!
Only 1 seat available.
Register www.lisavogt.net
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.
It’s hard to describe what it’s like when I’m feeling the creative flow. Time flies. Hours pass in what I thought were minutes. My naturally distracted mind is focused on what my hands are doing, and nothing else. I get lost in my own world. When I return to reality, I feel rejuvenated and spiritually uplifted. That’s why I like sharing my studio space with others. I try to give them that experience and hope they feel the same inspiration and fulfillment I do. -Lisa
Join me and I’ll show you all the pro tips and tricks I use to make stunning 3-dimnesional art. You’ll learn how to combine advanced techniques in new ways to create extraordinary sculptural pieces of art.
You’ll leave class with several completed glass sculptures, my custom firing guides and a deeper understanding of sculptural fused glass fabrication. You’ll have the knowledge, confidence and inspiration you’ve been craving to take your artwork to the next level.
Materials are included, that’s a $150.00 value! Plus, a professional photo shoot of your artwork is also included.
This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.
Here’s what the students are saying about the workshop.
“Instruction was clear, help was always available, and Lisa’s explanation of the equipment was great.” -Sherry
“My favorite thing about the class was the friendly atmosphere that encouraged open thoughts and sharing ideas.” -Lyn
“I enjoyed making all the projects, especially the flow piece and the freedom to be creative with our work.” -Joy
“My favorite thing about the class was the ability to see multiple pieces of art that originated from concepts taught.” -Vicki
“Lisa is very professional, knowledgeable and freakishly talented. House, art, mosaic, her work – really fun and beautiful.” -Lorna
“Incredible class. Lisa shared her artistic knowledge of color flow and her technical knowledge of glass.” -Larry
“I had so much fun! Lisa is a great teacher!” -Brenda
Things that surprised the students about the class.
“I was surprised by the photo booth demo-it was very helpful.” -Joy
“I was surprised by the limitless glass we had access to, for our projects.” -Lyn
“The valuable education on glass art photography surprised me.” -Sherry
“I was surprised by the hominess of your hospitality!” -Vicki
This class is for you! Any skill level can attend. Beginner, intermediate and advanced students alike will learn how to advance their glass fusing skills and expand their artistic style.
Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!
Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.
Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.
