Dan Neff

"My inspiration is twofold; first is technique-based. Glass is a very technical medium that fulfills my desire to learn, practice and master. The second is my passion to express myself. Without either, there is no drive to continue the path towards mastery. I accept this challenge every day and try to convey my passion by using techniques that foster a sense of amazement in those who view my art."

Glass is not only a way to express myself but also fulfills my need to work with my hands and to have something to show at the end of a day's work. At a young age I learned the value of mastering a craft from my family. After two years of "playing", I gave up my other passions and dedicated every spare moment to mastering lampworking. Ever since I have strived to create meaningful artwork.

I create my work starting with rods and tubes of different colors by lampworking borosilicate glass (pyrex glass). This form of glassblowing utilizes a torch rather than a furnace and allows for the creation of more intricate work than is typically created from furnace glassblowing. The reduced thermal expansion of pyrex glass allows me create large, intricate sculptures without fear of cracking.

I starting working with glass at age 17 as an apprentice for a lampworker. After finishing my BAS, I began taking classes from world-renowned glass artists who gave me the foundation for the skill-sets that allow me to express myself artistically. I am continually furthering my knowledge of glass through experience, experimentation and incorporating these in my work.

Ornament Artist 2013