GLASS STUDIO

Glass Fabrication

My design and production process combines research and experience with experimentation and discovery and begins when I view the glass for the first time. The sheet glass, produced by artisans in Seattle, WA, arrives at my studio in Mt. Horeb, WI in large, heavy sheets up to 48” in length. The glass is gorgeous! As I unpack the crates, I am inspired immediately by the colors and textures of each sheet of glass. In my mind, I have already begun hand-cutting, layering, and stacking the sheet glass pieces into forms and designs. Eventually, the panels of layered glass forms will be placed and fired in an industrial kiln to temperatures up to 1490°F.

Achieving the proper melt is both a science and an art form. To create a perfect melt, I must write a firing schedule that takes into account the interaction between the temperature and the form, thickness, and size of the art piece. To create kiln-formed glass, I use controlled heat to transform the layers of glass from a solid to a liquid and back into a solid again. The design and fabrication process can be both invigorating and frightening. I learn something new every time.

Facility

Barbara Westfall Art Glass, is located on a turn-of-the-century farmstead in southwest Wisconsin. My studio, a renovated 1940’s farm building, overlooks the Sugar River watershed, providing my guests and me with a constant source of beauty and inspiration. Originally constructed to house seasonal farm-laborers, my studio underwent a substantial renovation in 2014. The new 25 x 30’ addition, was designed with high ceilings, large windows and wired with amperage to operate and house an industrial kiln. The facility also includes a gallery space, where clients can view, enjoy and purchase my art. I offer classes and community art events at the studio. Call or email me to set up a visit, bwestfalldesign@gmail.com .

Gallery

The facility includes an art gallery, where clients can view and purchase art. I offer seasonal community art events. Gallery hours are by appointment only. Email me to set up a gallery visit, bwestfalldesign@gmail.com .