Stepping into Ginny's home and being greeted by her little dog Ivy is to witness someone truly living among their art. It is a lively space filled with lovely examples of the various types of work that she creates. After a tour of her studio it was obvious that working with glass is her current passion. Molten glass is transformed into beautiful works of art. Rows of glass rods and frit, a granular material made from crushed or powdered glass, line the walls and a furnace sits waiting for the artist's skillful hands.

Q: What inspired you to start working with glass as an artistic medium?

In all innocence, I took a class on glass painting with Mary O’Shaughnessy five years ago. This led to a strong and lasting passion for glass.

Q: You mentioned being mainly self-taught and that during the time of the COVID lockdown you discovered a world of classes on YouTube. Tell us a bit about your training.

After Mary’s class, I enjoyed five years of one-on-one instruction from Melinda Bryden. Also, COVID isolation caused many teaching artists to produce online classes. Since March, 2020, I’ve taken over 30 video classes ranging from short technique videos on YouTube to 60-hour in-depth courses by exceptional fused glass artists.

Q: How do you incorporate all the texture and color I see in your glass creations?

As with any artistic expression, color, texture, line and shape effect composition. A wide variety of techniques are used to achieve an effective piece. My work frequently evolves through many iterations.

Q: Are there any new techniques or styles you are currently experimenting with?

Yes! I’m deep into augmenting the glory of glass with the use of diffused LED lighting. I have one finished piece mounted on an LED panel that really works. Much experimenting going on over here. Fortunately, I learned enough electronics to qualify for a high level Ham radio license to wire light fixtures.

Q: Can you tell me more about the significance of transparency and light in your glasswork? You mentioned working with a new material lately.

It occurred to me recently that glass is uniquely transparent in varying degrees. I must focus on this amazing quality to captivate the viewer and move their eyes through a piece. For glass painting, I discovered a very high quality of glass enamel paint made in the UK and exported to Canada. Strong color and great mixing quality which provides an extensive palette.

Q: How do you approach pricing and selling your glass artwork?

A bit oddly, I guess. My formula is cost + time + emotional attachment. I establish a reasonable price range, add my time at $10/hour, and decide how much money I need to make it worth relinquishing the piece.

Q: Are there any specific locations or environments that inspire your creative process?

The location of my inspiration is all in my mind. It’s an amalgamation of the impact of my gardens, the evening news, my first world travails, lost friends, new friends, and the joy of learning new skills.

Q: Can you share any upcoming exhibitions or projects where people can view your work? Do you have a Facebook page?

It’s limited. I usually sell through word-of-mouth, Aurora Loop Gallery, or from my Facebook timeline where you can find me as Virginia L King. A professionally created web site is underway. My friends and collectors usually come over to my house/studio to see my work in person. In my opinion, glass needs to be seen and touched to be fully appreciated. I welcome visitors by appointment and you can reach me via email at Gal4fiber@cablespeed.com