"Sunscape" Series Design Concepts and Technical Information
Each sun begins with an assigned attribute, for example “Tender” sun. A full design is developed around the attribute and various colors of glass are chosen to best represent the character of the piece.
Once chosen, the base glass (the bottom layer) is enhanced by applying colored rays in a variety of methods to establish a background. The inside of the clear lens that will cover the base layer is also hand painted with lustered rays. This double application of paints gives each finished piece added depth and texture. The fusing of these two layers is the first of the numerous firings each piece will require.
After the first fuse, the pieces of glass that will form the sun’s face and rays are individually cut and placed on the base. This assemblage is then returned to the kiln to permanently fuse the accent pieces to the base. After this fusing is complete, additional hand painting, penning, and subsequent layers of glass are applied to complete the piece. According to the design, two or three additional firings may be required to achieve the feeling, sensitivity and individuality conveyed in each completed Sunscape.
Each firing or fusing of the piece is done in a controlled electric kiln. As the various layers of glass are fused together, the thickness of the piece increases. This additional varying thickness requires very careful control of the kiln temperatures and subsequent cooling processes. Internal kiln temperatures reach as high as 1500degreesF and a typical firing requires a cycle of 10 to 12 hours including an important annealing segment.
Earthstar Glass