Take a rare opportunity to visit glass artists at work and at home. These local artists will give us demonstrations, invite us to view their art, and explain how they use techniques that run the gamut from ancient to 21st century.
Begin at the home/studio of Eric Markow and Thom Norris in Falls Church. Inspired by artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Dale Chihuly, Markow and Norris recently developed their technique of glass weaving. Both have science degrees, which help them bring other disciplines to their complex, enigmatic woven sculptures.
Next, visit St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church in Springfield to meet artists Jimmy Powers and Lisa Osgood Dano. Powers, a stained glass artist who has lectured and demonstrated at the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery and American Art Museum, will discuss how he created a newly installed stained glass window in the church and, with Elizabeth Ryland Mears, 48 other stained glass panels there. Dano combines the ancient art of mosaics with contemporary methods and materials to achieve a balance of texture and movement. We will also visit St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Burke, where Mears designed the stained glass windows in the sanctuary and chapel.
Conclude the day at Mears’ home/studio, where she will demonstrate the workings of the bench torch by creating a small, solid sculpture in clear glass. The group will have an opportunity to enjoy her glass-filled home, which showcases her work and that of other artists.
A three-course lunch is included at Mike’s American Grill in Springfield. This tour is led by museum education consultant Sheila Pinsker.
8:15 a.m. to 7 p.m. by bus from the Holiday Inn Capitol at 550 C St., S.W. (corner of 6th & C Sts.)
This tour is limited to members only.
