"Longneck" Blown Glass Dinosaur. 12" W x 13.5" H x 5" D.
Jeff Mack - Toledo Native
To me, working with the vessel form and sculpting in glass is truly a manifestation of an innate love of the material, a unique expression all its own, and an art form that, at its heart, speaks of the glass inseparable from its maker. Each piece is an extension of my being. I am influenced by the history and processes of glass making and take cues from forms and techniques from antiquity.
The process of working hot glass is direct and demanding, it requires a complete focus of attention to the material and its’ forming. I am fascinated and drawn in by the dynamic interchange and relationships that occur during the process. The interaction of the team with a singular focus, working with molten Earth and Fire; the elemental nature of the process is what holds my interest and fuels my own passion to create.
Biography
Jeff Mack is a glass artist and the head of the glass arts program at The Toledo Museum of Art. He has worked in glass for over 17 years in contexts including master glass blower, factory stem maker, artist's assistant and gaffer for internationally recognized artists. Jeff has keen interest in the study of historic glass making techniques and has devoted much of his study and work in glass to this topic. He has taught extensively, demonstrated internationally, and his work can be found in galleries and collections throughout the World.
Façon de Venise Series
Façon de Venise means in the fashion of Venice. This was an important style of glass made outside of Venice in the 16th and 17th centuries. It refers to glass that imitates the style and technical virtuosity of objects made by Venetian glassmakers of the time.
The Façon de Venise Series has grown out of Jeff’s study of the traditional techniques of Venetian glass making. In this work you will see Jeff’s personal interpretations of classic forms, color patterning, and motifs. Jeff has developed a deep understanding of this mode of working glass by studying under and working with a number of recognized Venetian Masters who have generously shared their art. This understanding allows Jeff to add to a thousand year old tradition. Through this body of work, Jeff expresses his appreciation of this tradition and shares his love for the ancient art of glass making.
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