sculptural fused glass with Lisa Vogt - Lisa J Vogt

Posted on March 16, 2021 by Lisa Vogt — Leave a comment

Quick & Easy Tips for Taking Professional Quality Images of Glass Art

I love seeing all the new, creative projects being shared online in our glass groups. You are making amazing, beautiful pieces. It’s apparent from the well thought out compositions and quality construction that our community has grown in skill and talent.

Such wonderful art can be even more impressive with a great picture.

Myth buster: you don’t need expensive photo equipment and fancy lights to get a clean, clear, impressive picture of your art.

Yes, there’s a time, and purpose for high quality professional gallery grade images like those taken in a photo cube. But not every piece of art needs that level of sophistication to show well. You can take really nice pictures with simple techniques and a little planning.

The most important element of your fine art picture is the background. It should be plain and enhance the art without distracting the eye.

Here’s how to make your own effective photo set-up.

Prior to making art for galleries, all of the pictures of my finished fused glass art were taken with very simple set up. I’d place a wooden bar-height, bar stool on my work table. I’d place the bar stool in an area filled with strong natural light Then I’d tape a long, 24 inch wide piece of white paper high up on the bar stool legs. The paper would hang down from the legs and drape across the table. The paper made a bright, seamless backdrop that showed off my glass art without unwanted distractions. I still use this fast, easy technique for quick pictures today.

This picture was taken outside on white foam board.

Another super, simple set-up is to photograph your art on a sheet of white foam board or white poster board. The board has a reflective sheen that enhances the bright glass colors. The smooth surface brings the glass to life. I keep a clean board tucked away behind a door where it won’t get bent or dirty. Then when I need a quick picture, I pull it out and shoot away. It’s also a convenient backdrop if I want to take a picture outside. I carry the board and art into the yard and can pick a variety of filtered light sources for my photo shoot. Note: I avoid using white cotton fabric as a background. The fine woven texture absorbs the glass shine and makes the project look dull and lifeless.

Glass can be particularly difficult to photograph due to the bright colors, transparency and reflective qualities. But both of these set-ups have worked well for me. The clean white backgrounds ensure that the real colors and intricate details of my art shine bright and true.

Quick Tips for Great Images

Photograph the art on white paper, foam board or poster board.

Use natural light to illuminate the glasses true colors.

Avoid using florescent lights, they leave a yellow tint on the art glass.

Take multiple pictures from several different angles.

Avoid clutter in the background.

If you include a background, use something that enhances the art. It shouldn’t distract of confuse the viewer.

Crop the image with the camera. Get in tight. Fill the view finder with the art.

Center the art in the picture.

Take the picture at eye level for a true representation of the art.

Make sure the image of the art is level with the bottom of the photo and not at a distracting angle.

Once you have the shot. Try different creative compositions to see if something unexpected delivers a unique perspective.

You can take really nice pictures with simple techniques and a little planning. You worked hard on your newest project. Don’t stop there. It deserves a great picture to show it off!

Happy fusing!

Lisa

Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!

Artist Website www.lisajvogt.com
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhOifd7wukk
Facebook www.Facebook.com/LisaJVogt
Twitter https://twitter.com/lisajvogt
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lvogt_originalsinglass/

Watercolor Technique Webinar with Lisa Vogt

New Webinar Date
Watercolor Techniques & Advanced Fusing Design with Lisa Vogt June 1, 2021

Register here: https://www.glasspatterns.com/glass-patterns-quarterly-store/product/1536-watercolor-techniques-advanced-fusing-design-with-lisa-vogt-june-1-2021.html

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 to 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.

Plus, as a special bonus I include step-by-step instruction on how to use failed projects. I’ll explain in detail how to solve problems and how to ensure successful projects moving forward.

I also include my custom firing guides, project patterns and materials list in PDF form.

You will be fired up and eager to apply these new techniques to enhance the beauty and charm of your work.

Currents as seen in Sculptural Fused Glass Video

My April and May classes are SOLD OUT
New Date!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop September 21 – 24, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available.
Register here!
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

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!

Here’s what students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

“I feel I got the movement toward developing my own creativity this week. I was surprised that the things I already knew fit into the new knowledge I was getting in this class. Lisa is an excellent teacher who is tuned into what is going on in the class. She puts no pressure on the students when I know she could when we were dragging our feet. I was absolutely comfortable with the classroom set up and cleanliness of the studio. Will see you again soon.” -Judy

Here’s what the students from my November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

“There is a wealth of material, tools and possible projects. Lisa is very motivating, informative, and supportive. The variety of materials is amazing. The number of projects we made in 4 days is beyond what I expected. The classroom set up was very well organized. I felt completely comfortable and safe with plenty of space and sanitizer. This class was beyond my expectations.” -Jane

“My favorite thing was Lisa’s knowledge and wealth of information. I was surprised by how many projects we made. I was very comfortable with the classroom set up and loved everything about this class. I learned so much and it was fun. My least favorite part was Friday at 4:00 pm.” -Liz

“My favorite thing about this class was the variety of glass and other materials. Unlimited dichroic! I was comfortable with the classroom set up; Lisa had lots of little personal touches that made it special. Thanks for the wonderful lunches!” -Gail

Student comments from previous classes.

“My favorite part about the class was the non-stop building and the generous amount of materials available. What surprised me about the class was how full the schedule was. Usually, you do 1 project. We did 5 in 4 days. Thank you so much for your generosity.” -Christine

“My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“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

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

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Videos for every skill level and interest.

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Inspiration is here. Ebooks for all skill levels.

Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.

Posted on March 9, 2021 by Lisa Vogt — 1 Comment

3 Advanced Glass Fusing Tips – Take Your Work to the Next Level

Advancing is moving beyond your current skill level. It’s challenging your abilities and developing your talent and learning how you can make exceptional artwork that exceeds everyone’s expectations.

If this sounds like a huge, insurmountable task or an unrealistic goal for you, you’re not alone. Compressed into one sentence, the enormity of advancing ones craft can be a daunting motivation crusher. But don’t worry. Once we break down the steps you’ll be primed, ready and truly excited about taking action.

Here are three top tips pros use to break through and make exhibition quality art.

Dancer from Sculptural Fused Glass with Lisa Vogt

Be a Master of Color.

Color plays an important role in the effectiveness of your art. The colors you select convey your message. You, as the artist have the power to swing the viewers mood from tranquil, bright and cheery to thought-provoking, stirring and stormy. When planning a new project, I consider what type of impression I want to leave and then select colors that support that intention. Reds are active and emotional. Blues are soothing, they suggest tranquility. While yellows represent happiness and contentment. Choose your colors carefully and then use them with purpose to draw the viewer into your magical world.

Pick A Pattern.

Including patterns in your art is an essential way to increase the visual intricacy and attractiveness of your artwork. The whole idea is to capture interest and hold it as long as possible. Patterns add dimension which increases interest. This entices the viewer and engages them longer. Pattern also shows an increase in artistic exploration and creative skill on your part, and that always gets noticed.

Patterns can be simple and geometric or intricate and organic. I decide how to use pattern based on the artistic style I’m going for. For traditional designs, I like to use structured, linear patterns that illustrate organization and planning, while contemporary designs are great places to use free-flowing patterns. In effect they increase the visual movement throughout the artwork. Whatever style you chose, pattern adds drama that increases the visual quality of any piece.

Go Sculptural.

Shape up. The fastest and simplest way to ramp up your artwork and advance to the next level, is to create a unique shape, and go sculptural. Sculptural pieces always have higher visual impact that translates into an increased perceived value. This is the key to taking your work from a craft or a hobby to the threshold of fine art. We are so fortunate to be working with a medium that we can manipulate and shape any way we want. Take advantage of that and you can transform ordinary into the extraordinary.

Try using slumping molds in different ways. I combine molds to build unique shapes no one else has seen. Or I fuse several small pieces and then glue them together to create a freestanding, three dimensional tower. You can do it too. Start small. Then as you gain confidence go bigger and more elaborate.

The big difference between making ordinary pieces and repeatedly producing one-of-a-kind original art is planning.

When it’s time to make something new and exciting I begin by asking myself, what style do I want to make? Then I consider what mood the art should provoke and select an appropriate color palate. Then I layout a pattern that will reinforce my selected style. My next step is to plan what form the finished artwork will take. I ask myself, how can I manipulate the shape of the glass and display it in a unique and unexpected way that will be amazing? Then I begin the process of construction.

I don’t always have all the answers at the beginning. But I do follow my original plan to its natural end. Often, new directions present themselves during fabrication, but I stay true to my plan. I’ll take notes on the new possibilities and revisit them later with my next new undertaking. Sometimes deviations are inevitable, like when an idea or technique fails to produce the results I had hoped. Then I go back to the first three tips, regroup and forge ahead.

If improving your glass skills and growing your artistic style are on your 2021 list, I’m here to help you achieve success. I hope this insight helps you overcome obstacles so you can make the art of your dreams.

Wherever you are in your artistic journey, you’re doing a great job! Keep going. Never settle. You are an amazing talent. Shine on!

Except from my Sculptural Fused Glass Workshop

Happy fusing!
Lisa

Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!

Artist Website www.LisaVogt.net
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhOifd7wukk
Facebook www.Facebook.com/LisaJVogt
Author Website https://lisajvogtcom.wordpress.com/
Twitter https://twitter.com/lisajvogt
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lvogt_originalsinglass/

Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop May 25-28, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available.
Register here!
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

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!

Here’s what students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

Here’s what the students from my November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

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

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.

Posted on March 2, 2021 by Lisa Vogt — Leave a comment

Making a Sailboat Sink

Fused glass sinks are one of my favorite ways to incorporate functional art into homes. The custom feature is always a dramatic and artistic addition to any style decor. Most of the sinks I make are bold designs that feature a play on color, along with visual texture and striking form.

It’s a real treat to design and build a sink that also incorporates the mood and setting of the home’s unique location. This sailboat sink was designed for a lakeside home where picturesque mountain views and boating on the clear water make your stay special.

How it’s made.

This sink is made with three layers of glass. Using a circle cutter, I cut a large, 17 inch circle base layer out of clear glass. It’s placed on a primed, fiber board kiln shelf. I cut a second 17 inch clear glass circle for the second layer. This additional piece increases the thickness of the finished sink. The added layer makes the finished sink more attractive and more durable. The third layer is the design layer. It’s made up of cut pattern pieces. I cut this layer to a smaller 16 ½ inch size circle. The smaller diameter design layer leaves a decorative clear rim around the perimeter of the sink. This small detail produces a striking clear frame around the blue and green glass.

I cut the design pieces to fit on top of a full size paper pattern. The cut glass was arranged on the second clear layer. I applied frit to add interest to the solid glass colors. The sailboat is positioned off to one side to create a pleasing composition. I then applied white frit below the sailboat and dark blue frit on the water to simulate movement. Wispy white clouds in the blue sky were the finishing touch.

The stacked glass was fired to a full fuse temperature. Due to the thickness and size of the project the firing time was slow and conservative. It took 3 days. The fused glass was then slumped in a custom ceramic mold. At this point the sink was almost done. There was no reason to rush the process. The slumping was also slow and conservative. It took 3 days as well.

When I’m anxious to see any finished project come out of the kiln, I stop to ask myself, “What’s more important to me in two weeks, that the project is successful, OR that I got to see it a little sooner?” Of course, we all know the answer. I wait, not always patiently, but I wait. Fortunately, there’s always more glass to cut and another kiln to fill.

With the right tools and equipment, drilling the drain hole is fast and easy. We use a variable speed drill and special drill bit to grind a hole to accommodate the sink drainpipe. We then countersink the drain hole, so a strainer drain fits flush with the surface of the glass.

For more information watch the Sailboat video here: https://youtu.be/yOW976lhaHk

Are you ready to make your own custom sink? Find step-by-step instructions along with project specific firing schedules and materials lists in my video, Fused Vessel Sinks available on my website at https://lisajvogt.com/product/fused-vessel-sinks-with-lisa-vogt-video-download/

Happy fusing!

Lisa

Special Thanks to: HIS Glass Works & Creator’s Cutter’s Mate Circle Pro

Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!
Artist Website www.LisaVogt.net
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhOifd7wukk
Facebook www.Facebook.com/LisaJVogt
Author Website https://lisajvogtcom.wordpress.com/
Twitter https://twitter.com/lisajvogt
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lvogt_originalsinglass/

Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop May 25-28, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available. Register here!
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

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!

Here’s what students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

Here’s what the students from my November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

Student comments from previous classes.

“My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“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

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

Instructional videos for all skill levels and interests.

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.

Posted on February 23, 2021 by Lisa Vogt — Leave a comment

5 Reasons Why Pro Fusers Take Notes

Being artsy and creating original art is exciting. It feeds the mind, body and soul with inner joy and peace.

Glass fusing has broad appeal due to the ease at which plain sheet glass can be transformed into flashy pieces of art. It’s this facet that makes this medium attractive to artists and crafters who love hands-on immersion.

But glass fusing is different from other mediums. Kiln operation and following firing guidelines make glass fusing science as much as art. Of course, you can ignore that reality. Stay in the safe zone, using pre-programed kilns and adhering to standard firing schedules. Copy and make the same reliable projects that everyone else is sharing. But the real exciting creations are inspired by stepping outside of your comfort zone. To stretch your imagination and take your art to an all new level of amazing, you must take your work more seriously.

Approach your hobby like a pro.

Get organized. The best way to master the technical aspects of science, and benefit from your process is to take notes of your work in progress. Once the technical aspects are under control, the artist is free to focus on the creative development of the art.

You argue, why stop the creative flow to take boring notes?

Here’s why the pros take notes.

1 Creative inspiration.

We’re human. We forget intricate details. Remembering the big, broad strokes is easy. It’s the tiny nuances that drift away like fluffy dandelion seeds on the wind. These seemingly insignificant concepts are what make your art your own, unique creations.

Pros take notes even when making routine pieces. They know that new design ideas come from recycling and reorganizing old tried and trusted design ideas. Often, my groundbreaking innovations are the product of combining an unlikely variety of tiny concepts. I pull minor techniques from previously made art and merge them to develop a single new creation.

Plus, if you’re consistent and establish good note talking habits, you’ll free up mind space previously dedicated to remembering your methods. This open-air gives new ideas room to live and grow.

2 Find encouragement.

A notebook is black and white proof you’re making progress. No matter how small, every entry is positive reinforcement that you’re learning new things, trying new techniques, and growing your creative style. It’s a tribute to hard work and an ego boost whenever you need encouragement to forge ahead.

Success is a terrific confidence builder. When you have a notebook full of great success stories it promotes cheerful production. At any time, you can flip through those messy pages and marvel over all the beautiful pieces you’ve made.

It’s a thrill to revisit simple projects you thought you’d outgrown. You remember how much fun it was to lose yourself in the creative zone and consider remaking old favorites for the joy of it. That’s priceless.

3 Build self-confidence.

By taking detailed notes of a project’s progress as its made, it’s easy to repeat successful projects with confidence. I consult my notes when I want to repeat projects quickly and easily with accuracy.

Notes are also a great reference for new project development. With them I can plan new design directions knowing what outcome to expect from certain advanced techniques. This knowledge frees me to focus my full attention on creating a revolutionary new design.

Lemon Plate as seen in Artfull Home with Lisa Vogt video

4 Learn from your mistakes.

Another, huge benefit to cataloging your methods is you can retrace your steps backwards when disaster strikes to pinpoint where it went wrong. It’s a valuable teaching tool you can use to learn from your mistakes. With notes you can efficiently repeat your successes and avoid failures in the future.

In my experience, taking notes drastically improves the overall quality and success of my projects. Documenting assembly and firing methods minimizes problems and gives me the self-confidence to experiment.

5 Trail blaze new ideas.

Pioneering new design concepts is exciting and scary. When I’m commissioned to design original art, I consult my fusing notebook for guidance. I look up projects that are similar in size and thickness to the new job. I study projects that are larger and projects that are smaller. With that information, I develop a custom firing schedule for the new job. I write a program that’s conservative, to avoid breakage, and yet gives me the desired results I promised the client.

Like you, I don’t want to waste time, money, or material on failures. We all want to start a project knowing that the finished artwork will bring our beautifully imagined vision to life. If it doesn’t, the failure is devastating. By taking notes, you can approach new design ideas with greater confidence. By knowing the parameters that have worked successfully in the past, you can take on more challenging projects and enjoy success in the future.

Pros make it a habit.

Taking notes is the best thing you can do to improve the quality and increase the complexity of your art. Good habits are as hard to break as bad habits. Form good habits.

Be a pro.

Happy fusing!

Lisa

Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!

My April 2021 Class is SOLD OUT!

NEW DATE!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop May 25-28, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available.
Register here!
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

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!

Here’s what students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

Here’s what the students from my November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

Student comments from previous classes.

“My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“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

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

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.

Posted on February 17, 2021 by Lisa Vogt — Leave a comment

Get Fired Up for Sculptural Fused Glass!

Inspiration is here!

I know many of you are missing the interaction, encouragement and inspiration that comes from getting together with like creatives and fusing glass. Last week I hosted my 4-day hands-on, Sculptural Fused Glass workshop. It’s the third class I’ve held since September 2020. In each class, I limited the number of students to facilitate social distancing while still maintaining a comfortable and clean working environment. Last week’s students made several beautiful sculptural pieces. It’s such a joy to see them take the same materials, mix in their own style and artistic flare, to create original that reflect their unique personalities.

We’re all one big happy artistic family. We have to look out for and take care of each other. Therefore, I’m including you in our week’s activities to motivate you to get back into the craft that brings us together.

On day 1 the students jumped right in. They assembled a 10 inch free-flow. They included transparent colors, opal colors and a lot of clear glass. They build the free-flows with four and five layers of glass layered in such a way that the colors mix when heated. When glass is fused, it seeks a thickness of ¼ inch. The multiple layer project flows and grows when heated to 1600 degrees. When making this type of fusible component the growth is expected and desirable. As this displacement method produces all new, exciting color combinations. The students loved making their own personalized sheets of glass.

In the afternoon, the students cut and laid out two woven components. This project looks difficult but its really fast and easy make. The open spaces combined with transparent colors and dichroic glass is an irresistible combination.

On day 2 the students cut their free-flows with saws. It’s always a little nerve racking to cut up a successful project. But exceptional work is the combination of multiple advanced techniques. The cut pieces were then slumped to give the glass a complex curvature in two directions. It’s added steps like this that elevate the visual intricacy and overall attraction of the finished pieces of art. The woven pieces were also slumped diagonally over stainless steel molds to give them a lacy, ribbon affect.

In the afternoon, the students created a rectangular blank with twisted cane, dichroic glass and colors of their choosing. These simple shapes would later take on a whole new look. After the glass is fused it’s cut into thirds, slumped, and then reassemble with shifted layout. The students then made another wavy project and a matching base. The students quickly learn that it’s a combination of advanced techniques that make these projects extraordinary.

On day 3 the students enjoyed casting decorative hearts using stainless steel cookie cutters for molds. They included twisted cane and frit to make darling gifts for family. They also removed several slumped pieces from the kilns. Then they used a 12 inch grinder/ polisher to shape and level the bottom edge of their components. A good portion of this class is spent using equipment that transforms the unique shapes they build into more elaborate forms. Their elaborate forms are then combined to create unique glass sculptures.

On day 4 the students created cast blocks. They followed their own design directions and created patterns that spoke to their individual styles. In the afternoon, we discussed finding inspiration and how to approach new projects in the future with an eye for sculptural appeal. We also went over, in detail, all the firing schedules we used in the class. The students decided to take their components with them and assemble their sculptures at home.

I love teaching these classes. It’s great to be with an energetic group who want to expand their knowledge and art. We all learn when we share our ideas, skills and talent with each other.

This class is all about taking risks. It’s about going beyond the basics to nurture our creative spirit and develop our ability to design original fused glass art.

Where do you find inspiration? Go out there and chase it down. It won’t just come find you. Get firing!

Are you ready to take your glass fusing to the next level? Join me in May for my next available Sculptural Fused Glass Class. Details below.

Here’s what students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

“I feel I got the movement toward developing my own creativity this week. I was surprised that the things I already knew fit into the new knowledge I was getting in this class. Lisa is an excellent teacher who is tuned into what is going on in the class. She puts no pressure on the students when I know she could have when we were dragging our feet. I was absolutely comfortable with the classroom set up and cleanliness of the studio. Will see you again soon.” -Judy

Sculptural Fused Glass with Lisa Vogt video

Learn at home at your own pace with my Sculptural Fused Glass video.

Happy fusing!

Lisa

My April 2021 Class is SOLD OUT!

NEW DATE!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop May 25-28, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available.
Register here!
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

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!

Here’s what students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

Here’s what the students from my November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

Student comments from previous classes.

“My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“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

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

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!