Advanced techniques - Lisa J Vogt

Posted on October 5, 2021 by Lisa Vogt — Leave a comment

Fused Glass Sculptures Made Easy

What does sculptural fused glass mean anyway?

Sculptural fused glass is the creation of three-dimensional forms that rise above a flat plane. Artists create 3-D works by using multiple methods and techniques with complete freedom of materials and process.

Sounds exciting, right? All you have to do is stand your art up and it’s miraculously sculptural. Sure, you can do that. The word “sculptural” sounds exotic. Add it to any piece of art and suddenly it has a mysterious aura surrounding it, and a significantly higher perceived value. But like most really exceptional work that looks easy, there’s more to making impressionable art than just erecting a flat piece of fused glass.

The real difference between art and craft is the depth of immersion the creator puts into the creation of their art.

Hobbyists copy. They follow outlined directions and build pretty pieces according to a pre-tested recipe. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with doing that. Hobbyists want to know they’ll be successful and have beautiful results. Especially after all the time and money they’ve spent on a pastime.

I’m a hobbyist when it comes to other popular activities like singing, flower arranging and astronomy. That’s how we learn. By following the pros and picking up their tricks, we learn how to make things we’re proud of and admire.

And if you become hooked, maybe you take your hobby a step further. You try new techniques and experiment by mixing techniques or combining ideas that inspire you. This is the threshold of advanced learning and the blossoming of self-discovery. You wonder, what can I do? What can I make? How far can I go? And the real question is, what am I capable of, artistically?

Hobbyists often start a hobby to relax and enjoy quiet time. They are content to stay in the shallows where it’s safe and they are successful. And that’s admirable.

Artists, on the other hand, take their commitment more seriously. They’re drawn to a medium by an invisible magnet. From the start they’re compelled to learn as much as possible about that art form. They have every intention of progressing, to work on bigger, better, more advanced projects. They head for the deep end without looking back and, sink or swim, give it all they have.

What does this have to do with sculptural fused glass?

Sculptural fused glass is the product of such artists. They’re the ones who go above and beyond. They challenge convention and push boundaries.

You may think it takes extensive experience and an impressive glass studio to be one of those pioneers. You’d be wrong. Your most valuable assets are a positive attitude, insatiable curiosity, and a fearless willingness to try. Just try. Trying is worthy of celebration and cheers.

How to get started.

I recommend making small 2 inch x 2 inch samples using different, new techniques that intrigue you. This gives you construction and firing experience with these new methods to see how they fire in your kiln. Then consider mixing methods that you’d usually do independently. Take these component pieces and cut them up. Then put them back together in a new way.

Slump plain clear fusible glass over molds in unique ways. Try combining different shapes to make sculptural groupings all your own. Again, start small. You can always take a successful project larger. Once you have a winning combo slump your component pieces the same way.

Take notes and pictures so you can repeat your successes and learn from mistakes.

Your biggest obstacle is likely you. Get out of your own way. Start small. Make tiny changes. Results are results. They don’t have to be monstrous to have enormous value.

If you’ve come this far in your craft, if you’re continually seeking inspiration, knowledge and community, I believe you have it in you to create your own unique sculptural fused glass.

Want to jump start your sculptural glass fusing? Join me Tuesday October 12, 2021 for my Fused Glass Sculpture Webinar.

You got this!

Happy Fusing!

Lisa

Follow my blog for weekly inspiration sent right to your inbox.

Fused Glass Sculptures Webinar October 12, 2021

Creating striking sculptural fused glass forms is easy when you know the professional tips and tricks!

Join me in this comprehensive webinar and learn how easily you can put tried and true methods to use in unlikely ways, to create extraordinary sculptural art.

Enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities.

In this in-depth webinar, you’ll learn pro tips and tricks for better glass cutting. See how to mix different fusible materials to make more elaborate designs.

You’ll be amazed how using standard slumping molds in unique ways can drastically improve the shape of your art.

You’ll be inspired by the innovative combination of ordinary techniques I share.

You’ll be confident to fuse glass after seeing how easy it is to load, program and fire a kiln.

Best of all, you’ll have an exclusive technical advantage with the advanced understanding of my dependable firing programs. And you’ll love the stunning three-dimensional results you can achieve by fusing all of these concepts together.

Beginner and advanced students alike will find inspiration, motivation and renewed artistic freedom from seeing the step-by-step construction of more than 5 sculptural projects in this webinar.

After this exciting webinar you’ll have the professional knowledge and increased confidence to incorporate these innovative methods in your new work.

In addition, you’ll have a working knowledge of kiln operation, custom firing guides, and a deeper understanding of sculptural glass fusing fabrication. You’ll have the burning desire, and the cool self-confidence, to take your passion to greater heights.

Are you a lifelong learner?

As a life-long learner myself, I know it sometimes takes a change of scenery, a challenging new educational experience, and the encouragement of an experienced instructor to advance my skills and help me grow.

Are you ready to grow?

NEW DATE FOR 2022!

Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop February 22 – 25, 2022

Only 3 seats available

This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.

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

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.

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!

May 2021 Student Testimonials

“My favorite thing about the class was the creative freedom – we were not required to make the same thing the same way. I was surprised by the variety and number items we made and the flexibility we had to go our own way with our projects. The glass studio was very comfortable and very clean with plenty of room.” -Ron

“My favorite thing about the class was the projects were tailored to our interests with user specific glass choices and design options. This makes the best type of learning environment. I loved the continued technical information that was used in daily discussions. Loved the amount of space we had for working and the use of top-quality tools and the hands-on assistance Lisa gave each one of us. You will hear and see me again. Thank you for your time and talent.” – Donna

“My favorite thing about the class was the creativity – putting things together in new ways – using different materials – and how welcome I felt. I was surprised how much we were able to get done and by Lisa’s ability to coach those of us on different levels. My least favorite part was that the class ended. The classroom setup was excellent – well organized. I really feel like Lisa gave me the tools to advance to a new level. It was worth the cost of the workshop, airfare, B&B, animal care and house sitting! Can’t wait to put what I leaned into practice and return for another workshop.” -Sue

Read more student testimonials on my website.

Artwear Designed for Artists by Artists Tell them how you really feel with bold T-shirts, Eco-conscience tote bags and sassy mugs.

Get it now! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Instructional eBooks for every skill level.

Posted on September 23, 2021 by Lisa Vogt — 3 Comments

Taking it Outside

This summer Joe and I went to New Your State for a week long family vacation. It was nice to leave flat, humid Florida in favor of the majesty of green mountains and the revitalizing power of a lakeside retreat.

Of course, I packed my camera. I could do with less clothes. My camera was definitely going. Plus, I took my new, BIG lens to try to get a picture of bald eagles that nest nearby.

I love being outdoors capturing the natural splendors of nature with my camera. Wildlife and landscapes are among my favorite subjects. While in NY, Joe and I enjoy hiking to mountain peaks with expansive lake views. I especially like the trek when we have a dramatic photo destination to ease the burden of carrying my camera, lenses, and tripod. It’s also a real treat to relive my woodland experiences over again through my pictures when I share them with you.

This year we tried something different. We did several hikes to back country locations with waterfalls. It was hot. The trails were rocky and steep. But we were determined to find picturesque settings. I was looking for areas where the streams flowed down rocks like steps. And places where the stream changed direction causing the water to funnel into narrow channels increasing the visual drama of movement.

On every hike we stopped in several places along the way. Each one had its own features and special charm. But, in each location I was aware that one aura remained the same. I’d scramble down the slope, pick my way over the leaf padded forest floor and step over rocks to reach the stream bank. And there I was in awe again and again of the drumming rhythm of nature. It was a thrill to feel the rumble of the rushing water through the wet boulders beneath my boots. I was energized by the gentle touch of the cool mist each time it kissed my flushed cheeks.

The flowing motion of the water added a new, welcome opportunity to take pictures with an emotive aspect. We played around with my camera settings. I have to give Joe credit for my success. He had the patience to research how to create the soft look of the extended exposure I wanted with my specific camera. Me, I just wanted my camera set up to shoot what I envisioned. Kind of like having a pre-programmed kiln, but with a custom program. Or for you non-fusers, like a microwave with a preset defrost button. I’m sure you understand. I didn’t want to be bothered with the tech stuff. Instead, I wanted to focus on being creative with the composition and lighting. You know, be the artist.

I really appreciate Joe’s help and love that he loves to do research. When we reached the first site, we took several test pictures. We tried different camera settings until we found one that I liked. Once we had it, I wanted to make sure I could recreate the same amazing effects in the future. I wrote notes to myself on my phone so I could repeat the steps and then expand from there later.

For those of you who enjoy the technical aspects, I’ll briefly explain how we set up to capture the silky cascading water that makes these pictures so captivating. I attached my camera to a tripod for stability and crisper focus. For these photo shoots, I set my camera aperture mode to F22. Then I switched to manual mode and set the shutter speed to 1 / 2.5. This worked well in subdued lighting under the canopy of trees. When I took pictures out in the open, without the shade of trees, my images came out a little over exposed, washed out and too light. If I were to take pictures on a sunny beach the F-stop settings would likely have to be adjusted. The shutter speed I used gave me enough movement and still retained the linear details of the falling water I wanted. With a shorter shutter speed the water didn’t have a silky look. With a longer shutter speed the water became a solid white mass, it lost definition. Basically, the camera settings are movement and light sensitive.

What I learned about taking moving water pictures.

My pictures had a crisper focus when I used a tripod. I sat on the ground and propped my camera on my bent knew to take a few spur-of-the-moment pics. Most of them were blurry. The moving water looked fine, but the surrounding landscape was out-of-focus.

Make sure to focus the lens on something stationary like a rock or foliage. The water is moving so you don’t have to focus on it. You want the surrounding subject matter to be as crisp and clear as possible. My solution is simple. I press my shutter button halfway down and focus on a rock near the waterfall. Then without letting it up, I move my camera lens, so the waterfall is the focal point in the frame. Then I press the button down the rest of the way to take the picture. Then the surrounding landscape is in focus and the water has a velvety shimmer.

Take more pictures than you think you need. It’s hard to tell if a shot is in focus or if the color is bright on the small camera screen. You can delete the duplicates after viewing them on a larger screen like a tablet of computer.

Once you have the shot you want, try changing your perspective. Get lower or higher for more dramatic images. Try different compositions. Place the waterfall off to one side. Turn the camera for a vertical layout.

Have fun! Get carried away. Plan extra time so you can stop and enjoy the treasures that appear unexpectedly around every corner.

Some of these suggestions are my artistic preferences. They’re not hard rules. In fact I’m the one most likely to change them as I get better at this type of photography or if the setting is very different. Like suppose I’m taking pictures of flowing water in a snow covered setting. I imagine that would present its own challenges. But I do love a challenge and thankfully I have Joe to help me.

I hope you enjoyed my pictures and that they brought you a relaxing moment of peace and tranquility. I have several exciting wildlife pictures too. I’ll share those in another post soon.

Cheers!

Lisa

Follow my blog for weekly inspiration sent right to your inbox.

Fused Glass Sculptures Webinar October 12, 2021

Creating striking sculptural fused glass forms is easy when you know the professional tips and tricks!

Join me in this comprehensive webinar and learn how easily you can put tried and true methods to use in unlikely ways, to create extraordinary sculptural art.

Enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities.

In this in-depth webinar, you’ll learn pro tips and tricks for better glass cutting. See how to mix different fusible materials to make more elaborate designs.

You’ll be amazed how using standard slumping molds in unique ways can drastically improve the shape of your art.

You’ll be inspired by the innovative combination of ordinary techniques I share.

You’ll be confident to fuse glass after seeing how easy it is to load, program and fire a kiln.

Beginner and advanced students alike will find inspiration, motivation and renewed artistic freedom from seeing the step-by-step construction of more than 5 sculptural projects in this webinar.

After this exciting webinar you’ll have the professional knowledge and increased confidence to incorporate these innovative methods in your new work.

Are you a lifelong learner?

Are you ready to grow?

Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop October 19-22, 2021

Only 2 seats left

This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.

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.

Materials are included, that’s a $150.00 value!

May 2021 Student Testimonials

Read more student testimonials on my website.

Artwear Designed for Artists by Artists Tell them how you really feel with bold T-shirts, Eco-conscience tote bags and sassy mugs.

Get it now! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Instructional eBooks for every skill level.

Posted on September 14, 2021 by Lisa Vogt — Leave a comment

Advanced Techniques for Designing Exciting Fused Glass

When I step into my studio, I know the subject or focal point of the fused glass project I intend to make. I may plan to build a piece with a sailboat or something with a geometric pattern. It’s that basic plan that fuels my artistic actions. Making the subject is easy. But I don’t stop there.

Consider the background space.

The background is equally, and possibly more important than the subject. How the background is handled can dramatically improve the power and appeal of a work of art. A good background enhances the focal point. It reinforces the subject with images or shapes that establish setting or create a mood that further support the artist’s specific visual goals.

Succulents as seen in Simple Pleasures Glass Fusing with Lisa Vogt video

Evolution of a design background.

Let’s examine a few fused glass designs together. I’ll show you how the addition of simple, complementary elements can sway the design direction. And how the choices you make can produce unique, exciting designs.

I start my design process with the specific subject I want to create. In this case I wanted to make succulent flowers. Notice how simple the succulent flower pattern is without a background design in place.

I could have used plain blue and green glass for the background to suggest an outdoor location. That would have worked fine. But, with a little more thought, creativity, and time I created a background that entirely changed my subject for the better. I used hand-made stencils along with powder frit to add a garden setting to my flowers. It worked. The subtle leafy pattern and hint of blue sky dramatically increase the charm and beauty of my finished bowl.

Buzzing Bees as seen in Simple Pleasures Glass Fusing with Lisa Vogt video

For my next design my focal point was bees. It’s such a simple yet bold subject that I could have easily executed it beautifully with a plain background. But plain isn’t my style. I could have placed them in any number of settings. I thought about sitting them on top of flowers, or on the side of a beehive hanging from a tree limb. But at the time, the rich golden colors and angular geometry of a honeycomb appealed to me more.

Look at the bee pattern alone. Then look at it again in the completed piece. You have to admit the addition of the honeycomb background seriously increased the bees artistic influence on the finished piece of art.

Wine Glass as seen in Simple Pleasures Glass Fusing with Lisa Vogt video

Another simple design I favor is a wine glass. It’s graceful shape and promise of relaxing with good company make it dear to my heart. The problem is the basic design lacks personality. Its screaming for a creative treatment that takes us away to a picturesque retreat. This pattern is great for imagining different background settings and how they would change the art’s mood. For example, picture a background with a fireplace and open book. Or how about a loaded cheese board with fruit or a sunny beach with palm trees. Better yet, make a dimly lit cave with a witches caldron and spider webs in the background. Each of these design ideas are easy to make. So there’s no excuse not to try it for yourself. And there’s no doubt that the life they would breath into the original design would make it better.

These examples illustrate the incredible impact the background has on your fused glass design. I hope I’ve given insight into my design process and simple ideas you can use to liven up your own artwork.

Knowing what you want to make is exciting. But don’t let your imagination stop with the focal point. Do more. Customize the background to transform ordinary patterns into something special that reflects your unique and flourishing artistic style.

Excerpt and designs from my Simple Pleasures video.

Happy Fusing!

Lisa

Follow my blog for weekly inspiration sent right to your inbox.

Fused Glass Sculptures Webinar October 12, 2021

Creating striking sculptural fused glass forms is easy when you know the professional tips and tricks!

Join me in this comprehensive webinar and learn how easily you can put tried and true methods to use in unlikely ways, to create extraordinary sculptural art.

Enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities.

In this in-depth webinar, you’ll learn pro tips and tricks for better glass cutting. See how to mix different fusible materials to make more elaborate designs.

You’ll be amazed how using standard slumping molds in unique ways can drastically improve the shape of your art.

You’ll be inspired by the innovative combination of ordinary techniques I share.

You’ll be confident to fuse glass after seeing how easy it is to load, program and fire a kiln.

Beginner and advanced students alike will find inspiration, motivation and renewed artistic freedom from seeing the step-by-step construction of more than 5 sculptural projects in this webinar.

After this exciting webinar you’ll have the professional knowledge and increased confidence to incorporate these innovative methods in your new work.

Are you a lifelong learner?

Are you ready to grow?

Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop October 19-22, 2021

Only 2 seats left

This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.

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.

Materials are included, that’s a $150.00 value!

May 2021 Student Testimonials

Read more student testimonials on my website.

Artwear Designed for Artists by Artists Tell them how you really feel with bold T-shirts, Eco-conscience tote bags and sassy mugs.