Fused Glass Kachina Light Sconce
We have a client who is a lover of art. Her home is filled with family heirlooms, over 100 years old, from her home in Europe. She also loves local art; paintings, textile art, sculpture and now-our copper and glass.
She said she wanted some light sconces for the exterior of her garage. Mike had done some beautiful copper sconces for her entry previously, with corn as the motif. (I will include those in another blog soon!) She explained that she loves Native American art and went on to describe a stained glass Kachina she had seen years ago in a bank in Scottsdale, AZ.
It just so happens that I have an Uncle and Aunt who live in that area, so I asked them to photograph that window for me. They are so good to me . . . they knew exactly which bank I was talking about, and sent me great close up photos of the window.
Stained Glass Kachina in Scottsdale AZ. Bank.
Now mind you, this window is over 2 stories high, and must really draw attention both inside and out in that bold Arizona sunlight. And nighttime lighting is said to be captivating as well. At any rate, our client had carried this image in her mind for years. I was so excited to be able to create my interpretation of the Kachina for her to enjoy on her home.
Kachina Sketch
I started with a simplified drawing, and set to work choosing glass that would speak for the details.
I used my ring-saw to cut some of the features, stretched thin pieces of glass into swirlies and painted metallic accents.
Sunlit Fused Glass Kachina
I gave the clear glass texture to disperse the light softly. This was all accomplished in the first firing of 1480°.
Fused Glass Kachina Light Sconce with Steel Backplate.
A second firing to 1350° slumped the glass over a stainless steel mold to give it the bent dimensions. Mike made a steel back for each sconce and they were ready to hang on the home. The light through the neutral glass is just enough brightness, and the blue and amber of the Kachina are beautifully earthy and bold.
I really enjoyed making these custom lights for our homeowner, and I know she enjoys the creative process of artists in many forms and mediums. That’s a joy to be a part of.
