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Seekers® presents the work of Stephan
Schlanser, who creates original designs in sparkling glass candlesticks,
bowls, vases and sculptural works.
Schlanser uses the ancient technique of
kiln-forming, also called fusing, to create his functional and
decorative objects. Fusing of glass was used by the Egyptians and
Persians nearly 4,000 years ago. With the advent of glassblowing 2,000
years ago, glass fusing became a lost art form only to be rediscovered
and revived in the latter half of the 20th century.
He begins each piece by hand cutting
elements from high quality plate glass, or imported Diamante glass then
placing them over handmade molds. About 4 hours is required for the
elements to melt into the proper shape, fuse together and cool. After
cooling, Schlanser spends another three to four hours to smooth and
polish edges and, for some pieces, etching of linear, abstract or
figurative designs.
Because of the process and his own high
standards of quality, he rejects about 30 percent of the pieces he
makes. Those considered first quality are signed and dated.
His dramatic Tiered Candlesticks
feature fractured edges that resemble glacial ice formations and create
a dramatic focal point or centerpiece.
Some pieces are created with etched or
carved designs. Using a sand etching process developed in the 1870s,
Schlanser masks the entire surface, draws his design by hand, then
etches or carves sections one at a time. Subsequent pieces will use this
same design.
His Chloe Bowls, in various sizes,
feature delicate leaf patterns with carved edges tracing the rim of the
bowl. Sand etching of the leaves and base creates a matte finish that
provides contrast with the shiny surfaces of the bowl. Other bowls
feature cats, horses, dolphins and elephants.
Schlanser began working in glass in
1983 and maintains his own studio in Southern California. His work has
been shown at major galleries and juried exhibitions throughout the
United States. Stephen’s work has commissioned by Coca Cola
Corporation, Disney, Rockwell and R.J. Reynolds. Additionally, Hillary
Rodham Clinton, Arnold Schwartznegger, Sylvester Stallone and Bruce
Willis have been recipients of his work. |
