BACKSTREET GALLERY

A Co-Op of over 20 artists in Florence, Oregon

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.




