Gerhard Satz

I craft kiln-formed, “fused” art from pre-color glass sheets, rods and grinds. The glass is cut, manipulated and arranged to create a design lay-up. With this medium, I enjoy exploring the depth and dimensional possibilities unique to glass. The intention is to create an aesthetic lying between glazed ceramic and blown glass. I arrange a “potential” of cold shards and shapes, then the kiln compels the encounter of color and form, of heat and gravity. At the height of firing, around 1500 degrees Fahrenheit, when the hot glass becomes whole from many parts, the design is seized and held fast in a single tile.

Once cooled the original tile can be left along or worked while cold, as I often grind the surface and edges with diamond grinding equipment. Once content, I return the two-dimensional tile to the kiln, atop a ceramic mold. A lesser heat is applied to relax the glass into a mild curve.

The photo-frames are fired just once, cut with diamond equipment, then built up with float glass and copper.

I began to explore kiln-formed glass in the 90’s. A short beginner’s workshop began many years working through a foundation of technical proficiency. When I knew enough to learn from masters, I began to take professional courses. Discoveries and diversions continue.