BACKSTREET GALLERY

Karen Gassaway

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I find inspiration in having lived near the ocean my entire life. This has influenced my creative style and process. I create art because I am driven to make things and I am inspired by the ocean and its multitude of creatures and formations.

 

I specialize in melting glass on a torch, called lampworking. After many years, I can now create my beloved fish and ocean scenes. I focus on trying to get the details and nuances of Mother Nature translated into glass. I also enjoy working with different substrates or natural elements such as shells, wood, and even barnacles. All items I may find on my morning walks.

 

My art style is loosely realistic with an extra bit of color and texture just for fun! I am motivated by everything around me as we live in such a wonderful natural habitat with the forests, lakes, rivers and ocean. I've been creating glass art for 15 years. 

 

When people see my work, I hope they experience their own love of the natural world.