The Artisan Craftsman I manipulate the hot glass using steel tools specially made for contact with very high temperatures. One common tool is newspaper folded up and kept wet for molding the glass into shape. Though the tools used are important they are not a substitute for my ability to employ techniques. Years of practice blowing glass go into developing these techniques.

I started blowing glass in Seattle in 1997. As soon as I took my first gather of glass I realized a passion within to learn the age old intricacies and techniques of glass blowing. In 1998 I made a pilgrimage to Murano, Italy to observe the masters and get exposure to the art. Upon my return I continued an apprenticeship with Dale Chihuly in Seattle for one year. In 2001 I relocated to Santa Cruz, California to develop my unique style and gain experience assisting independent artists. Over the years I have attended numerous intensives from highly regarded glass teachers at esteemed institutions and kept detailed notes of these courses. Currently I live in the San Francisco Bay Area and share my passion for glass with enthusiasts by making art glass and blowing for local studios.

My journey in glassblowing is a consistent endeavor in my life. I feel a sense of mystery and amazement when connected to the forces of nature. Heat and light radiate from within molten glass. Glass is like honey, bubble gum, taffy, a good bagel, eggshell, and stone, all in the process of making one piece. So it can be very difficult to manipulate. The different colors and shapes uncovered along the way to completing a piece are thrilling. Getting a vision for a glass piece in the moment while visiting a magnificently beautiful place is my biggest delight. Manifesting that idea is my second biggest delight and brings me great joy.

My current work is based on expressing the spirit of nature. So I blow functional vessels with an attempt to capture harmonious color combinations by adding patterns and colors to the glass while it is on the blowpipe. I really value simplicity and my taste in form is nothing short of that. As a result my work is elegant yet raw. Its art glass with purpose. Nourishing the desire and need for beauty in everyday life. I hope that someday our humanity will be surrounded by beauty in our everyday life and that my work contributes to that harmony.