Artist’s Introduction

I was introduced to glass as an artist’s medium in May of 2002 when I began learning the techniques of glassblowing. A few short months later, in January and February of 2003, I visited the Studio of the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, New York, for further instruction regarding the use of glass as a form of expression. It was at the Studio of the Corning Museum of Glass that I learned some of the methods for manipulating and forming glass in a kiln.

The effect on my artwork was tremendous and immediate. I grasped onto glass’ unique sculptural properties; and decided to combine its delicate ability to transmit color and light with the general crudeness of industrial steel. Upon my return to Tulsa, I began the long, arduous process of building a studio capable of combining the two mediums. All the while, I have continued my education and developed my abilities. At times, my learning has come through the sheer struggle of solitary experience. But at other opportunities, I have been fortunate to take lessons from some of the most advanced glass artists alive today, and have found help and advice from many others.

To this point in time, the resulting body of work since that fateful visit to New York can be divided into two significant types. The first is an abstract and sometimes whimsical interpretation of flowers, blooms, etc. that can be discerned in the pieces that include found objects, gears, discarded automobile parts, and the like. These are usually combined with various forms of structural steel that have been altered from their original forms.

The second main type of work includes my trees. The arbor oeuvres have become my opportunity to explore individuality. Each and every tree is unique, just as each and every person I have ever met has been. And within that singleness, that uniqueness, there lies a hidden beauty. It is that concealed and inherent loveliness within us all that I have begun to seek, and attempt to capture in steel and glass.

Both of these types of work share a common thread and are a direct result of my life-long passion for organic forms. Inspired by plant-life and animals alike—whether marine or terrestrial—I attempt to find a visual balance between form, color, and mass within all my glass and steel creations. And I have found a great joy in the middle of that very struggle, which I wish to express in my artwork also.

So it is from those first fumbling steps with glass in 2002 and 2003 to this present time, I have sought to create and will continue to design increasingly more complex and rewarding works of art. For my own pleasure, and hopefully, for the fulfillment of those who will view my sculpture.

Sincerely,

Eric Baker