International Flameworkers Conference

The 10th International Flameworking Conference was held in NJ last weekend and it was A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!

Pictured here, is Lucio Bubacco as he was lampworking an angel which eventually held a paperweight, (in honor of Paul Stankard). It was part of a large piece that had been brought from Italy for the occasion.

Other fabulous demonstrators included the delightful Paul Stankard, Robert Mickelsen, Kari Russell-Pool, Cesare Toffalo, Ginny Ruffner, Loren Stump, Carmen Lozar and Shane Fero.

I have to say, I thought I had died and gone to glass heaven with all of them there and talking and showing their art. And the rest of the audience was PDC too. (pretty darn cool) I met a lot of other flameworkers, some gallery owners and folks who specialize in other styles of glass as well. The students from Salem Community College in the glass department were awesome as well. The did demos in the Hot Shop, on the lathe and at torches.

Some of my personal highlights? Well there were so many and I know I'll accidentally leave some out..watching Lucio work with amazing speed and finesse. It was almost like watching a magician and Emilio Santini's explanation and chat about it while it was done. Cesare Toffalo's use of gold leaf with boro- lip smacking gorgeous, Paul Stankard's paperweight and conversation with Lucio while both working side by side. Ginny Ruffner's presentation...I want to be like her when I grow up. Her creative mind is astounding...of course there was Loren's drop shaped paperweight made out of boro as part of a collaboration with Carmen Lozar whose work I love. Kari Russell-Pool mixes her own canes and colors and creates intricately beautiful large pieces. And I could keep going. Each artist brought something different and exquisite to the table.

For me, I have a notebook full of quotes, little notes and dreams. Not only to return each year, but to try these hints and tips that I picked up while watching. As I try them, (after my upcoming trip) I'll let you know how they turned out. I think I must have gathered a couple of month's worth, at least.

See you tomorrow!