God Grant Me Serenity... I think we can all relate to this right now.

OK - I'm frustrated... so I am putting these pictures on here and describing them below. It might have a funny format... but at least the pictures are posted.

I often get requests for stained glass customized with the Serenity Prayer engraved on it.

This one also has the names of their family members who will be receiving this as a gift. This window was done using my Iris glass, glass bevels, and the end pieces exposed.

The next photos show both pieces full sized. One used the Iris glass, and the other used my Rose Garden glass.

These windows, although similar, have some variations.

The window on the left is completed framed in zinc with the rolled edge facing the center of the panel.

The window on the right has the rolled edge facing the outside of the panel, leaving 3 sides framed in zinc.

This is the engraving on the Rose Garden window.

It also has the Serenity Prayer and their family members name engraved.

These pieces make wonderful gifts for family, at times of joy, consolation, and for almost any occasion.

I truly hope this brings the recipients serenity during this Christmas season!

Pat Deere

Sunrise

This has to be one of my favorite little pieces I have done for a while. This started out as a demonstration piece for a show I was doing. I eventually made two and sold them as a set... more are on their way.

To make them I take the end pieces of glass that have beautiful, natural, wavy edges. The wavy edges leave air space in between the pieces of glass. They are cut to the same width and soldered to a beveled border.

The sun is made with a molded pieces of glass. This particular one has kind of a stony texture. As pretty as it looks here, you should see it in person with sunlight pouring through it.

I plan to have some of these ready to put onto my web site for immediate sale, take to my upcoming show in February at the Rock Financial Showplace, and can custom make them to any size to fit any window - almost. I am limited to the width of the pieces of glass I have.

Pat Deere

Under The Sea is on its way!

Probably one of the most special pieces of glass I have worked on in a long time is this one here. It was brought to me by a customer who had it finished for his daughter. His daughters mother started the piece before she died and it was brought to me with the drawing already done, some of the pieces cut, some of the glass supplied, and a lot of puzzling together.

The photos show it completed in its frame, and with me standing beside it so you can get an idea of the size of the panel.

Originally, the background glass was to be the more opaque teal glass. There was not enough of it so I incorporated two other glasses similar in color but different in texture. I think it really brings the background to life.

Although nothing will bring back her mom, this is a piece of glass she will always be able to treasure. She can remember her mom for starting the piece for her, and her dad for the hoops he had to go through to get it finished, transported, and installed into her bedroom.

Thank you Adrian for allowing me to be a part of this process. I truly hope your daughter is able to appreciate what you have gone through to make this happen. Merry Christmas to you!

Pat Deere

Note: This is one of the reasons I love working in glass. Over the years, I have created many family heirlooms that families can enjoy and pass on to other family members as time passes. I will be posting more of them in the future. If you would like to create a family heirloom for your family, give me a call.

Blessed Savior Lutheran Church - Vandals at it again!

Painting on glass is one of my favorite things to do. Unfortunately, for this church, this was not a repair they are excited about.

Blessed Savior Lutheran is a small country church in Blissfield, Michigan. There is a small, but very friendly, group of people who attend church there.

In 2004, I was asked to repair/restore most of the windows in their church. They purchased the building and it had been sitting empty for quite a while. Vandals had their way with a lot of the windows. Some of them were completely releaded, some were repainted, and some of them were ok the way they were. We got them removed, repaired and reinstalled and they looked wonderful for about five years.

Recently, vandals were at it again. To the left are 3 pieces that were cracked in the process. You can see where they belong in the full size picture towards the bottom of the window. I will be painting these in two separate firings before reinstalling them into the panels. Somebody deliberately broke through the plexiglass with a brick before going back and throwing a rock through the hole they created. As much as I enjoy working with glass, this is not the way I like to get new projects. My hope is that people will look out for suspicious characters and report them. This is a large cost for a small church to bear.

This is the painted glass after it has come out of the kiln for the first time. The heavy black outlines and the veins of the leaves were painted in with Tracing Black 401 from Reusche with a little zinc added to dull it down a little. This helps it match the existing glass paint which has lost some of it's shine. More photos to come after the next step comes out of the kiln.

Pat Deere

Links: Interested in glass restoration for your church? Click here.
or Glass Painting Classes? Click here.

Dancing On The Ceiling

My niece sent me a link to a pretty cool web site, I have listed it at the bottom. One of the amazing works of art was an exhibit she had seen, probably during the Cows On Parade Exhibit in Chicago in 1999.

When Detroit wanted to do a fundraiser between the Detroit YMCA and the Windsor Endowment for the Arts, I submitted a design. This design was sponsored by General Motors and purchased by a private buyer who donated it to the Detroit Opera Theatre. I haven't seen it there yet but was told it is displayed in their parking structure. These photos show two sides of the car while on display on the Detroit People Mover prior to the auction.

This side was a wonderfully in love couple with a very smooth dance move. The next photo was inspired by a photo of my husband at his senior prom - donning a John Travolta pose.

I estimated there were over 170,000 pieces of glass in this piece. There was a mirrored dancing ball on the top of the car. Iwill post other pictures of the back and drivers side at a later date.

I always wanted to mosaic a car. Actually, I wanted to mosaic a running vehicle so I could drive it in parades and attend Art Car functions. Once I did this, I lost that desire for a while but would probably do it again if I got the right vehicle.

Pat Deere

Classes: Mosaic classes can be taken at Pictures In Glass. Click on this link.

Link: Unusual Worlds Worst/Best/Craziest, etc.

Crosses of Distinction

I am shipping this cross out today... with a little hesitation. I was given boxes of glass a customer salvaged from a church that had burned. Evidence is still in the glass that couldn't be washed off. It gives the glass a smoky grey color in areas. The appropriate thing, it seemed, to use the glass for was to make crosses.

Last month I set up for a spiritual art show in Orchard Lake. Somebody snatched it up and I am mailing it off today. This was the only cross I was able to make with this glass because I only had one piece with the beautiful painted glass floral pattern.

I am sure it is going to good hands and they will enjoy it. That makes it much easier to part with.

Pat Deere

Links: Glass Painting Classes

A lamp in the making...

A sneak peak at a lamp in the making. This one is actually for my brother. He was shopping near what he calls home, in California, and in his words "walking through a bunch of lame lamp shops", when he decided to call me instead.

On his visit to Michigan, we looked at lamp designs, talked about lamp bases, referred to photos of his new living arrangements, and started pulling out sheets of glass. What we decided on was a revised version of this design which came from the book, Elegant Laps three by Walrus Publications. This was a revision of their Bamford (Two) design.

This will eventually be a 6 sided panel lamp. We are using a black on clear baroque from Spectrum for the main body of the lamp, the top and bottom borders use the same glass in an iridized version, there are solid black accents around the bevels and top border, and a series of beveled glass triangles at the bottom.

He will be using a lamp base found during his lamp search... or maybe go with a different base all together. The nice thing about this lamp is it will go with almost any decor. I'll post photos of the finished shade soon. If you have a lamp base you love, and it needs just the right shade... give us a call. If you like to do stained glass and want to make your own shade, click on the link below for classes.


Pat Deere


Links: Panel Lamp Making Classes

Words of wisdom from Maya Angelou - forwarded via email...

Subject: Maya Angelou, words of wisdom. Read to the end, you will laugh just picturing it happening.

(This was forwarded to me via email. Not confirmed by me as words from Maya Angelou, but as one of my favorite authors and people... it sounds like her to me. Besides, it is funny.)

I love the thoughts she lives by!!!

I didn't break the elastic... Don't break the elastic!

In April, Maya Angelou was interviewed by Oprah on her 70+ birthday... Oprah asked her what she thought of growing older.And, there on television, she said it was 'exciting...'Regardingbody changes, she said there were many, occurring every day.....likeher breasts. They seem to be in a race to see which will reach her waist, first.The audience laughed so hard they cried. She is such a simple and honest woman, with so much wisdom in her words!

Maya Angelou said this: 'I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.' 'I'velearned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/shehandles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangledChristmas tree lights.''

I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.''

I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making a life.''

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.''

I'velearned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt onboth hands; you need to be able to throw some things back....''

I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.''I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one..''

I'velearned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. Peoplelove a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.''

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn..''

I'velearned that people will forget what you said, people will forget whatyou did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'

Please send this to five phenomenal women today... and back to me if you think i'm one also.If you do, something good will happen: You will boost another woman's self-esteem..If you don't...the elastic will break and your underpants will fall down around your ankles!Believe me, I didn't take any chances on MY elastic breaking.... I sent it to a lot of special women I care for.

Note... I don't usually forward emails, but I did forward this one. Hope it brings you a smile!

Pat Deere

Always aim for the moon. Even if you miss you will land amongst the stars

New Gift Idea - Great for ...

... Weddings, Anniversaries,
Birthdays, Birth of New Baby,
Sympathy, Housewarming Gift, Etc.


Today, I am showing my newest gift idea that can easily be given for many occasions. This one is a wedding gift that has been engraved with the couples name and wedding date.

The glass used here is called Rose Garden. I also have an Iris glass that can be seen on my web site and will be shown as on option on my web site as well.

I have given and had requests for similar items to be given for other special occasions with inscriptions provided by my customers: poems, quotes, bible verses. In addition to weddings and anniversaries... I have made them for customers who needed a gift for a birth, a death, a birthday, and more. These are made in a standard size of about 10.5"x16" but can be made to fit other sizes upon request. This premade size is designed to be shipped quickly because the glass is already cut and ready for orders. Each piece of glass, although similar, will be different from the last. Taking a look at the sheet glass on my web site, you will notice that it often differs from one edge of the glass to another. But, it is all beautiful.

This one is framed in beveled glass with green accents.

Let me know if there is a custom gift giving need in your future!

Pat Deere

Free Spirit Art Fair & Tecumseh's Holiday Open House

The FREE SPIRIT ART FAIR is this week-end. It is one I have been looking forward to for a while. I have always had a lot of artwork that is spiritual in nature and this show will give me the opportunity to showcase that art.

On Saturday, November 7, 2009 from 10am - 5pm I will be at the Orchard Lake Community Church in Orchard Lake, MI. I have posted a couple of links to web sites and articles about the show, including one that has a map.

I'll be posting some of the new items I have made to get ready for it next week after I have time to relax a little bit again... before starting on the numerous projects that are waiting for me.

TECUMSEH's HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE is also this week-end. I have a space at Great Ideas Emporium where you can find many of my finished items ready for sale.

On November 6, 7, & 8th visit downtown Tecumseh when they celebrate their annual tradition of Open House. Local merchants will be displaying their holiday specials and savings. On Friday evening join in for the candle light shopping and be sure not to miss the 7:00 pm lighting of Streetscape for the holiday. Saturday and Sunday enjoy live entertainment while doing your shopping.

Pat Deere

LINKS: Detroit News Article and Map
Free Spirit Art Fair Flyer
Tecumseh's Holiday Open House
Great Ideas

Tecumseh's Art Bra Auction

A couple of photos from past events...

Tecumseh, MI puts on a really nice event that supports breast cancer research. It is called Tecumseh's Art Bra Auction and it is held at the Purple Pear Tree.

The photos here show two bras I donated in 2005 and 2006. The black one was made using glass frit, glass stringer, and embellished with brass filigree. The glass bra on the right was made with fused clear glass bottles and other found objects.

The following information is an excerpt from Tecumseh's Downtown Develpmont Authority's web site:

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a fact that does not go unnoticed in Tecumseh. Merchants throughout the city are planning events that will take place from October 18 through the 24. Mark your calendar for the Tecumseh Art Bra Auction. This entertaining evening takes place at The Purple Pear Tree in downtown Tecumseh. This year the date is Thursday,October 22, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Artists have been invited to create and submit their own interpretation of bra art. All entries are on display during the evening, and folks are encouraged to bid on their favorite pieces. Purchase your ticket for this unique event at The Purple Pear Tree or Evans Street Station. Tickets are $25.00 and include live music, delicious food, fantastic art and wine. All proceeds are donated to The Hickman Cancer Center. Call 517-424-6003 to find out more about Tecumseh’s Art Bra Auction.

I will be going. I don't have a donated item this year but I will enjoy the event. Hope to see you there!

Pat Deere

Links: Facebook Link for the Art Bra Auction

Tecumseh's Downtown Development Authority Info

Things To Do Before I Die

Wow. What an experience yesterday.

I have written before about Alden B. Dow but yesterday I got to "experience" him through his home and studio in Midland. I was only allowed into the lobby area, but I must have a hundred pictures of that room.

Have you ever walked into a place and left with a feeling that could not be described in words or photos? That is how I felt. Every time I took another step I could see another angle, another little hidden alcove, another set of stairs, how the water reflected on the ceiling if I sat here or on the floor if I sat there. The weight of the ceiling made you want to sit down in a chair and when sitting in the chair you were eye level with the water that came right up to the walls outside the room. The ceilings were pink and the carpet was green... I know, I know, I know it sounds awful but it was not at all. You really have to experience it yourself. This is one of those things that is on my "List of things to do before I die.". I really need to go back and tour the whole house, studio, and the grounds.

I was in Midland to give my proposal for a future project. They were using Dow as their inspiration and that was my reason for visiting in the first place. I have been going to Traverse City frequently since I was a kid to visit family. I don't know how many times we would just drive right by and not realize what a treasure is right in the middle of my own state.

Do me a favor and look up Alden B. Dow, read some of his work, look at photos... but you won't get the whole experience until you visit and see and feel all that he stood for.

If you get that opportunity... let me know what you felt!

Pat

Link: Alden B Dow Website

Another successful private lesson!

This isn't actually my student yesterday... but this is how they feel after a lesson. My recent student has taken stained glass before in a group setting. There were supposed to be 8 students maximum and their were 10. That is not a bad thing, a lot of people teach group lessons with that number of students, but what you learn with a large group decreases due to the lack of time the instructor has to help each student.

When Audrey came yesterday, she was having difficulty cutting glass, spending a lot of time grinding, and not at all feeling comfortable with her level of work. By the time she left my studio after a 2 hour private session, she had her project successfully cut out. She had to do very little grinding to make her piece fit. And... she was ready to take it home and foil the edges so she could solder when she comes back for her next two hour session.

At the rate she is progressing, I know we will finish soldering and framing the piece she started and have time to have me help her with some other projects she had started at home. That is the advantage of private lessons. You learn a whole lot more. What you learn is exactly what you are needing help with (not what the whole class needs to know). You are able to finish more quickly and work on other projects if you would like.

If you're looking to learn stained glass and are considering taking classes, call me to find out how we can work private lessons into your schedule. I am sure you will not be disappointed.

Pat Deere

Link: Stained Glass Class Information

Finally - A Stained Glass Project for ME

This has been a long time coming. I live with an electrician and you know what they say... we could definitely use an upgrade in that department.

But, to keep things fair... we don't have much stained glass either. That is about to change. We are getting ready to log side our house. My studio and our offices got a face lift a few years back with the intention to do the same to our house. Our friend and contractor, Arnold, has been taking measurements of the windows, doors, etc. to get ready.

My part was to make sure our view was not interfered with - I don't want any lines breaking up the view. We have a beautiful field and woods across the street and I can still remember the day we looked at our house and I sat in their chair and just stared out the window. Not much has changed. Our road is still dirt - or gravel as the Realtors like to call it. We still don't have many neighbors. But, our house is in need of an upgrade. So our front door and windows will remain solid glass.

Now, this drawing is VERY sketchy I know. But I know in my mind what I am doing so it is good enough for me. The glass on the top of this page is what I will use on the sidelights on either side of the door. The sidelights and transom will actually not show through the interior of our house because of the way it is built. So, they will be back lit and the lights will be accessible from outside. The transoms below the porch roof will probably be solid sheets of multi-colored glass from Uroboros. I will choose a glass that shows the color whether it is back lit or not. And some of the same glass will be used in the transoms and sidelights to bring it all together. I was originally thinking I wanted beveled glass in the transoms below the porch, but now I am considering just solid sheets of the multi colored glass.

This is how the process works. Now the excitement comes in and the ideas will most likely change some as I move through the project. That is the fun of not locking myself into a detailed drawing of what I want. As I create the window, if something doesn't look right I can easily change it.

I'll keep you posted!

Pat Deere

Link: Thinking of custom glass for your home? Check out my web site for more photos.

Pictures In Glass & Great Ideas Interiors

I am so excited! Starting next week I will be renting space from Great Ideas in Tecumseh. Since my studio is in a rural area, and on a dirt road, it's not like I get a lot of walk in traffic. And, honestly, that's ok most days if I'm working on custom glass work. But this arrangement will give me an opportunity to have my finished work in a beautiful building, surrounded by beautiful things, and they are open regular hours!

Appleumpkin Festival is Friday thru Sunday the week-end of October 10th. I will be set up by then so... if you're in the area, stop by to see me and/or my work, Julie's new space at Burdicks across the street, Harold Roberts Antiques, and whatever other business are settled in by then.

Since Julie, Great Ideas owner, has moved her home interior design, home furnishings & drapery studio across the street to Burdicks, that leaves more space open for business like mine who want to get more exposure. If you have a business, or know of a business who could benefit from this kind of arrangement, contact Julie at Great Ideas. Her contact info can be found by clicking the link below. Although she has not been specific about what she is looking for to fill the space shared with Harold Roberts Antiques, she is open to the ideas you may bring and she will discuss whether she thinks it is a good situation for you and them.

I will be showcasing my new glass and copper garden sculpture, our wood furniture/stained glass line, great gift ideas from $15 on up, and of course, my custom glass work!

Pat Deere

Link: Great Ideas Interiors The photo shown above is one I created for one of Julie's customers. They have a wine cellar in their basement. This is one set of two windows that were placed on either side of the cellar door. The wine bottles were fused to fit in the window, the grapes were 3 dimensional, and the leaves were placed unevenly on the vine to give it some dimension. I wonder what we could do for you?

Jack Schmidt - Glass & Steel Sculptor

This is worth watching and his studio is worth visiting. He is a glass artist in Toledo whose works can be seen everywhere. Check it out.

He is a glass and steel artist I have admired for many years.


Pat Deere

Link: Jack Schmidt Video

Working With Glass and Steel

Hmmmmm. I planned on posting some photos and when I searched "working with steel and glass art" I kept coming up with the same artist, Christopher Wilmarth. Pages and pages of links to his site would show up. He has beautiful work, but it is not at all what I have going on in my head.

My current enrollment in a welding class has me so excited. Right now, I have not created anything all that exciting, but I have been able to successfully cut through 1/4" steel without a lot of slag and leaving nice clean lines. I have successfully welded many different kinds of welding joints with my acetylene torch. I know I have to get through the process of knowing how to use my equipment, then I can really move forward with new ideas.

I find that glass is never boring because there are so many different aspects to it. I can fuse, slump, cut, glue, solder, paint, twist it and so on. Knowing how to properly weld just opens up that many more doors for me.

Know of any artists you would like to share who work with glass and steel?

Pat Deere


Link: Christopher Wilmarth

Michigan Stained Glass Census - Window Of The Month

Some wonderful, traditional, stained glass church windows are highlighted this month at the Michigan Stained Glass Census.

First Congregational United Church of Christ, Kalamazoo, MI is featured for September/October 2009. Lots of detailed information can be found on the link below.

The first couple of paragraphs describe the stained glass this way:

First Congregational United Church of Christ of Kalamazoo was organized as a Presbyterian church by fourteen Michigan pioneers in 1835, two years before the territory became a state. In 1842 the church changed to a Congregational form of government and in 1961 it affiliated with the United Church of Christ. Its fourth home, designed in an English Gothic style by New York architect Aymar Embury II, was completed in 1928 to replace an earlier1890 church building destroyed by fire in 1925.
The stained glass windows of the church were created by three studios during different eras. The earliest windows were made in the late 1920s by the A. L. Brink Studio of New York City; one window in the sanctuary south wall was designed in the 1930s by Nicola D’Ascenzo and fabricated by the D’Ascenzo Studio of Philadelphia; and the chapel windows were made during 1959, 1960 and 1972 by the Willet Stained Glass Studios of Philadelphia.

For more information, click on the link below.

Pat Deere

Link: Michigan Stained Glass Census September/October Window of the Month 2009

Creativity - Now and at 80

I met an 80 year old man that sat and talked to me for 30 minutes. What a creative person. He is the kind of person I want to be when I grow up. He showed me portraits he has painted since he started painting 3 years ago, he is making a hydrogen contraption of some kind to power his car because gas prices are so high, he got in a car accident (is now using a walker) and is planning out how to make his crashed car fly, he has made his own instruments. What fun. When his grand kids come over they always ask, "What are we doing today Grandpa?". He is an inspiration to them and is a true inspiration to me. And, he is enjoying the whole process.

What a great week-end. I met this man at the Clinton Fall Festival where I had a booth. This is a small town festival that has been going on for 30 something years. I put my booth in the lost and fine arts area where I demonstrate making stained glass, sell my work, and get the opportunity to talk to people like this man.

When people say they are not creative I just don't often agree. Creative doesn't mean you have to make stained glass like a pro, paint portraits like the masters, or be a creative writer. I think it means being like this man. Somebody who is willing to try something different and enjoying the process regardless of how it turns out. If it doesn't turn out the way you plan, you turn it into something different. Sometimes it is wonderful and sometimes it needs to be scrapped. But, not pushing it to the next level because you fear it might not be perfect... to me is a lack of creativity. And that can be overcome by pushing through whatever problems or insecurities might be getting in the way.

This is where I like to be and where I am on a good day!

Pat Deere

Fall Newsletter 2009

My Fall Newsletter is published! To get it sent to you via email, send me an email and ask me to put you on my email list. It has active links to a lot of informative sites and pages. This will get you to a copy of my newsletter on my web site. Let me know what you think!

My quarterly Newsletter has finally arrived. Articles you should find helpful:
~Save 40% Off In Stock Glass
~Stained Glass Census - Window of the Month
~Lenawee Medical Facility Window Installation
~Protective Glass Information
~How It's Made
~Upcoming Events
~Great Gift Ideas
~Kitchen Cabinet Inserts
~The Log Furniture Division has finally arrived!

Newsletter link: http://www.picturesinglass.net/page/394502209

Pat Deere

Last October

It is fun when I can do glass and not paperwork in my studio. THAT, is a good day. This is my latest crushed glass piece getting ready for firing. I call this one Last October because it was inspired by a trip I took with my husband to Northern Michigan for our anniversary and a look at the color display. I must have taken 500 pictures. This was taken somewhere along the way. Possibly around the Boyne area. When we went, the color was the best there.

I have been playing with crushed glass, using System 96, mostly transparent pieces. This is actually only about 2/3-3/4 done with the layering process. I find that if I take photos in the flash mode as I am layering the glass, I get a better idea of what it will look like when it comes out of the kiln. I try to layer it about 1/2" thick so it is not brittle.

This is the time of the year to be in Northern Michigan if you plan a color tour. We are going again in October - I hope. We are planning on being in the Upper Peninsula but the color will probably be better at that time in upper lower Michigan.


I am hoping to have this piece out of the kiln and incorporated into a stained glass panel so I can take it to Art-A-Licious in Adrian tomorrow. While it is firing, I'll be working on a fireplace screen, a display for my nightlights and fused glass bowls, etc. etc. etc.

Hope to see you there!

Pat Deere

Shows, Tents, Weather...

I am excited to try my new tent for my upcoming shows. In the past I used a frame made of wrought iron rails that was beautiful, but it weighed a ton. In my search for something more user friendly, I ran into some artists who had tents made by Flourish Company. I have a link to their web site attached.

First I purchased the interior walls that allow me to hang things right on the mesh wall - without damaging the wall. The tent goes up with push button ease - no more bolts and wing nuts for me.

The top is vented - yes! And has the versatility to open one side, all sides, or close sections of the front in case of bad weather - which we have all experienced if doing outdoor shows.

And....... they have great customer service! Any time I call, a PERSON answers the phone. That person is ALWAYS FRIENDLY, and very KNOWLEDGEABLE. If they put me on hold for a MINUTE they really mean a MINUTE. And, they get the tents to you quickly. I strongly recommend these guys if you are in the market.

Pat Deere


Upcoming Shows: Art-A-Licious http://www.artalicious.org/

The Clinton Fall Festival http://www.clintonfallfestival.com/

Free Spirit Art Fair, Orchard Lake

Night Light & Slumped Bowl Sets

Just a few of my new Nightlight/Slumped Bowl Sets. These have been a lot of fun. The nightlights are made with either the best section of a piece of stained glass, utilizing the fun natural edges where possible (as seen in the top of the brown nightlight), or fusing crushed glass (as seen in the red nightlight).

The bowls have been created with another section of the same glass cut to various sizes and heated in the kiln to the temperature needed to get the shapes I want. All nightlights and bowls will be slightly different than the ones you see here, making each set unique. I will be putting these on my web site soon. They will be priced at $15 for the nightlights, and $15 for the matching bowls, or the set will be sold for $25.00 and includes a gift bag and note card.



I use these bowls wherever I place them to hold jewelry, candy, change, etc. It looks much better in a glass bowl than it does sitting on a counter.These make wonderful gifts whether purchased separately or as a set.

I will have a variety of these at the upcoming Art-A-Licious event in Adrian this week-end.

Pat Deere

Portraits In Michigan - Hillsdale College

I'm heading out to Hillsdale College today to see the exhibit, Portraits In Michigan. I am so excited because my current portrait instructor, Bud Gale, is included in the show. It runs September 12-October 3 at the Sage Center for the Arts in the Daughtrey Gallery.

The flier here was revised a little - the portrait in the upper right corner is Buds, showing one of the portraits he has included in the show.

I have learned so much from him in a short period of time. Hope some of you will have time to make it to the opening reception today from 2-5pm or stop by any time through October 3.

I am anxious to start a portrait of my sons girlfriend, Meaghan, using the crushed glass technique I have been experimenting with and Bud's technique he calls the "extended squint method". I'll keep you posted.

Link: Hillsdale College http://www.hillsdaleart.org/

Pat Deere

Installation for Gayle

My recent installation for a customer in Ypsilanti...

Gayle had seen some work I had done for a friend of hers and was anxious to have some glasswork installed into the kitchen cabinets that were recently made.

The cabinet shown here is the first one you see when you walk into the room. It was made with bevels and clear textured glass. The top section used a clear antique glass that is very lightly textured to show off some of her nicer pieces, the middle had a clear Pilkington glass that was highly textured to help mute the books behind it, and the bottom glass was clear Waterglass that showcased a collection of wine.

The two cabinets shown here were on the opposite wall and compliment the cabinets in the first photo.

Stained glass can be as intricate, or as simple as you would like it to be. Because there were so many other design elements in her kitchen, the best design for these cabinets was a simple, clean design. It allows the cabinets to be a beautiful compliment to the rest of the kitchen design.

Pat Deere

Historic Homes

I have a customer who contacted me with a request for a simple design that was typical of glass in the period her home was built. She had the door restored by a carpenter who meticulously took the door apart, inserted the leaded glass into the openings, and put the door back together.


Sometimes the appropriate design is not an elaborate, expensive design. But, it does have to fit the era if that is what the customers goal is.

You will often see colored blocks of glass surrounding clear plate glass. Although simple in nature, it truly enhanced their refurbished door and added a lot of color to the entrance of their home.


She was thrilled when the door was finished, the glass was installed, and she could hang her refurbished door back into in her home.

Pat Deere

ARTISTS - Art-A-Licious 2008

Art-A-Licious Art Festival in Downtown Adrian, September 18, 3-8pm and September 19, 10am-8pm is looking for artists. Sponsored by the Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts, half a 10x10' booth, tent and table are provided thru a membership to the LCVA for $35.00. 48 artists displayed in 2008 and we are looking to expand that number this year. The festival also includes artists demonstrations, art for kids, HS art displays, dance, music, lost arts, readings by writers, and food. If you are interested, contact Pi Benio at 264-3901 or pbenio@adrian.edu .

Facebook Friends & Free Classes

Vasos Em Mosaico: One of the wonderful things I am finding out about Facebook is the way I can get in contact with fellow artists across the borders. There is a link for a Facebook friend of mine that might interest you. There, you will find a lot of fellow mosaic artists with some very interesting work. Some of it is glass and some use materials other than glass. But they are all a source of great inspiration.

Free Class Saturday: It is raining in Michigan and it seems like a good day to take some time and work on a volunteer project I have had going on. If you are interested in coming to help on this stained glass window, give me a call or email me so I know to expect you. I believe we will start about 9am and work until at least 11am. This is a good opportunity for you to learn and for me to get some help finishing a project that needs to get done. Hope to see you!

Links: Vasos Em Mosaico http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1788915244#/profile.php?id=1788915244

Chihuly Bridge of Glass

I don't think I will ever tire of the creations of Dale Chihuly and his team of artists. I'm not going to write much because you really need to go to his link and check it out for yourself. This is just a portion of this installation.

Links: http://www.chihuly.com/bridgeofglass/

Pat Deere

MTA Window Update & The Artistic Dilemma

The window I am designing for the Mass Transportation Authority at the Flint Bus Depot is moving forward. I met with the committee today and proposed my design. The painted samples here are similar to what I expect to use in portions of the window I am creating for the Arab American Civil Rights topic.

I believe the committee liked my design but did not feel the need for the added expense required to give it the detail I felt it needed. But... time will tell. I haven't officially heard their decision yet.

Now the artistic dilemma... do I stick to the budget or plunge forward with what will make it an awesome piece of art? My business sense tells me to stick to the budget, my artistic heart tells me to do what I think will best represent the topic and my abilities.

Pat Deere

Free Class Saturday

I am planning on being in the studio Saturday to work on a volunteer project that is long overdue. It is a window for Grace Bible Church. If you are interested in putting in some time, learning about stained glass or getting some free instruction, come by tomorrow morning to help out.

We will be cutting glass, foiling, possibly some torch work (bead making)... depends on who is here and how far we get.

Let me know if you think you want to come and I'll be sure to stick around for you. I will probably be in my studio around 9am and stay until we get tired of working. I'll check my email for interested people since I won't be around much this afternoon: info@PicturesInGlass.net .

Studio directions: 10650 Carson Hwy is 1 mile west of M52, and 2.5 miles south of US12 or 1.5 miles north of M50.

Pat Deere

Theatre, Mosaics, and Weeping Willows

I was asked by a local theatre to come up with an idea for their donor wall. What you see here was actually a sample board for a mosaic idea on another project... that I didn't get. (But I did get 5 stained glass windows on that job.) This sample board would have been used in a bathroom and resembled a section of splashing water.

At any rate, my idea is to make a weeping willow tree. The hanging leaves will actually be pieces of glass - some fused and some not (like the glass sample shown). The fused pieces will add a lot of dimension to the piece.

The trunk of the tree will have the feel of a dancing figure swaying in the wind like a weeping willow. Names of the donors will be engraved on the leaves.

Don't know all of the details yet but we will be moving in this direction. I love it when my customers give me the ability to use my artistic expression and not be tied into a preconceived idea of what they think it should be. History has shown they are usually much happier with the results.

I'll keep you posted.

Pat Deere

Moving along but more silver needed.

Today's update... Opened the kiln and washed of the glass only to find the silver stain still needs another coat. You can see how much darker the border on the right is than the one on the left.

So, today I will give another coat. Fire it to 950 degrees. Open the kiln in the morning. And from a positive thinkers perspective, when I wash it off it will look like the one on the right.

I'll keep you posted!

Pat Deere

Silver Stain - In The Kiln Prior to Firing

This is a photo of the glass with what should be the last firing of silver stain. This is Reusche Amber Stain D292465. The stain comes with instructions to fire it at 1050-1080 degrees. I have not had good luck with that temperature. When I called Reusche, I was told to try it at 950 - 1000 and that is what I have been doing. This has also been layered over a previous coat of silver stain by Reusche #1388 Orange Intense fired at the same temperature.

I have also had good success firing it with the kiln vented. I was told this helps to keep the metalizing down and I have to agree I haven't had any trouble with that using the vented technique. More photos when it comes out of the kiln.

Pat Deere

Reproduction Painting

Reproducing old glass can be a trial.

This was the "perfect" trial. This glass came from a historic home in Dexter. It took a number of glass paint applications and firings to get to this point.

First, the outlines were traced in brown and fired at 1250 degrees. Second/third firings added brown details/shading. The fourth firing/painting was for the amber you see here - the lighter yellow. Fifth - the glass is prepared for the 2nd coat of silver stain which is the darker color around the borders and center of the glass. It will be fired at 950 degrees. Then, the final process will duplicate the sandblasted design in the clear areas of the glass.

Problem areas were: matching the silver stains (amber colors). I had to use the most expensive stain available to get the correct match. The tracing brown was mixed with zinc to keep the shininess (is that a word) down. The idea is to keep it looking true to the era. I used a kiln shelf material that was fairly new so it could be cut to fit my kiln and hold this size piece of glass. The shelf kept causing bumps in my glass, thus additional firings until it was figured out. Lastly, the glass was very weak and one piece of the original panels broke in my hands as it was being tenderly dried.

What this does to me as an artist????? Causes aggravation, extended deadlines, wonderful learning experiences, and a clearer direction about how to proceed on the next one. Have to look at the positive side or it will drive me crazy.

Pat Deere

Classes: Glass painting classes are currently being taught as private lessons. Contact me for more information.

Drawing #1 for the Arab American Window

Here's the next progression of my sketch:

ROOF DONE IN GEOMETRIC GLASS PIECES

ROW UNDER THE ROOF WILL POSSIBLY LOOK LIKE TILE WITH THE WORDS: ARAB AMERICAN INTERTWINED.

THE OUTSIDE SHAPES WILL HAVE NAMES OF IMPORTANT INDIVIDUALS DONE IN CALLIGRAPHY

THE INSIDE WILL HAVE A STATEMENT TRANSLATED INTO ARABIC CALLIGRAPHY AND SANDBLASTED INTO THE GLASS

THE WINDOW SHAPES ALONG THE BOTTOM THIRD WILL HAVE INFO RE: RELATED ORGANIZATIONS

THE WORDS “CIVIL RIGHTS” WILL LOOK LIKE TILE AND PUT INTO THE ROW BELOW THE WINDOW SHAPES.

MORE NAMES OF IMPORTANT PEOPLE WILL FILL THE BOTTOM BORDER.

THIS WILL BE A VERY DETAILED WINDOW USING HAND PAINTED GLASS, SILK SCREENED DESIGNS, MOSAIC, AND LEADED GLASS.

THE IDEA IS TO HIDE THE WORDS INTO THE DESIGN TYPICAL OF CALLIGRAPHY DESIGNS IN ARABIC ART.

THE TRICK FOR ME IS TO MAKE IT LOOK AUTHENTIC ENOUGH, BUT DONE IN A WAY THAT IT CAN BE READ BY INDIVIDUALS VISITING THE BUS DEPOT.

I NEED TO INCORPORATE A LOT OF ELABORATE DECORATIVE IDEAS AND STILL KEEP THE COST WITHIN THE BUDGET. THAT IS GOING TO BE THE HARDEST PART FOR ME.

I AM FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO HAVE THE HELP OF SEVERAL ARAB AMERICAN FAMILIES IN THE ADRIAN AREA TO BOUNCE MY IDEAS OFF OF. THANK YOU SO MUCH!

Pat Deere

Arab American Civil Rights Window In Progress

What an exciting day yesterday. My trip to the museum proved to be an invaluable resource. My design ideas are becoming pretty solid. Now I just have to solidify the content.

I am realizing that calligraphy is one of the greatest art forms in the Arab world. That will be the basis of my design. I have been playing around with what it will look like and a "very" preliminary sketch is shown here. I believe I will have the mission statement for Arab/American Civil Rights translated in to traditional Arabic calligraphy and sandblasted into the central section of the window.

The organizations and relevant people will be done in English calligraphy on the bottom and sides of the window. Some kind of mosaic-like work will be included in the design as well.

August 13th I will know if the committee approves my design. But, at least now I can sleep knowing I have a direction that feels good. In the mean time, I will perfect what I am thinking and continue my research.

A trip to the museum would be very eye opening for anybody interested in expanding their views about the Arab American population. I left with an overwhelming feeling of who some of these individuals are, what their hopes and dreams are, and how much they are just like me in many ways.

Pat Deere