Growing up I often heard from teachers that Kim participates enthusiastically in class but doesn't often follow directions..... well, I've never been good at following rules so is it any wonder that I grew up and play with fire for a living?
So yeah,
I am a Flameworker
I use a specific type of scientific glass known as Borosilicate
This is commonly referred to as hard glass (the strongest and hardest glass made), is used to guarantee durability. Boro, also known by the brand name Pyrex, cools very quickly making it less resistant to thermal shock than any other type of glass. Because of this unique melting property small sections can be worked on without the entire piece needing to be heated, making it a dream to sculpt with. Additionally, it allows me to create varying sizes of work that remain lightweight and wearable.
Various hand tools, gravity and the fluid motion of spinning the glass is used to form the desired shape. In addition, 24k gold and .999 fine silver get vaporized in the flame and produce colours ranging from pink, blue, green to white that get swirled into unique abstract 3D smokey patterns that are always one of a kind creations.
Glass is a technical medium to work with and the Flameworker blends creativity, science and chemistry together in making Art.
For example, many of the colours I work with change in the flame and produce a range of textures and hues from a single rod. These striking colours are extremely versatile but take careful attention, knowledge, and years of practice to produce certain effects. Otherwise, the colours in the end product will look dull, burnt out, or full of unintended air bubbles.
The companies who make the coloured glass are part of a highly trained, specialized team who can spend years perfecting a colour. What that means to the artist is that each batch of glass is different with slight variations of tint, quality and workability. As well as us glass artists don't always have access to a colour we want, which could take months if not years to be restocked....uggh....
A kiln is used to anneal completed glass projects. Annealing is the process of keeping the glass hot enough so that the molecules can “straighten out” after being mixed together in the torch and bring down the temperature in a slow controlled manner ensuring longevity and a high-quality finished product.
Memorial Art Glass.
In our modern world long gone are the days of burial and having a sacred place to visit with our loved ones when they have passed away. When I lost my best friend I wanted a way for myself, his family and friends to connect with him. This all makes sense to the person I've grown to become, a woman who cares deeply for people and wants to help folks feel well. This, along with many meaningful stories that customers have shared with me, was the catalyst that led me to launch my Memorial Collection of Cremation Glass Jewellery.
This special glass technique encapsulates a small amount of your loved one's ashes within the glass, creating a truly one-of-a-kind memorial. The uniqueness of physically being able to see the cremation remains, resembling snow or stars, within the glass offers a comforting & tangible way to hold your loved one close to your heart and carry their spirit with you.
I understand that selecting the right piece can be a deeply personal and emotional process. I want to assure you that I’m here to support you every step of the way. I am more than happy to answer any questions you may have or provide guidance in finding the ideal design that captures the essence of your loved one.
Please reach out if you need further assistance. I'm happy to help and lend my expertise.
Here is a shot video of Kim Flameworking in the studio