Intense heat transforms common sand with grains of colored silica into works of art. Blown glass is a unique craft requiring strength and endurance. The conversion from ordinary to outstanding takes several steps and lots of concentration.
Anjali Singh’s quest to create complex sculptures began by completing a bachelor of fine art in 2016 with nine subsequent years in studios developing techniques. She has trained in several states, as well as overseas.
The work isn’t easy. Furnaces heat to more than 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, and shards can explode. Constantly alert to danger, artists harness fire to forge beauty.
“Glass blowing requires a lot of finesse with flame,” Singh said. “You’ve got to move with grace and flow with the material.”
Singh is an instructor at the Morean Glass Studio in St. Petersburg, Florida. Visitors may observe artists in action and participate in classes. Creations range from ornate palm-sized gold fish with fancy crystal fins to elaborate fluted bowls.
“What I really like about glass blowing is how much of a team effort it is,” Singh said. “It takes a community to lift heavy pieces. We often need extra hands to add sections and complete a work.”
Seeing the difficulty of this craft fosters more appreciation of the amazing Chihuly collection housed in a nearby building. Large, fantastical pieces by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly invite admiration. His chandeliers can be 30 feet long with a rainbow of colors and feature more than 1,000 pieces welded together.
In the same way that a master artist fashions creations, so can God use adversity to refine us and bring out the best in our character. Hardship can melt away pride and fan compassion in our hearts. “See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction” (Isaiah 48:10 NIV).
If you are going through a refining period with fiery tests, remain confident you will emerge as bold and beautiful. Majestic artwork takes time to fashion.
***
Youtube link for one-minute video of Anjali’s full demonstration:
Resources:
For information about glass blowing at the Morean Arts Center, go to
https://moreanartscenter.org/morean-glass-studio-location/
More details about the specific steps in glass blowing can be found at:
http://www.sacramentoartglass.com/the-process-of-blowing-glass.html
