"Glass has been a medium of expression for me for more than 25 years. I began as a stained glass enthusiast, but glass art gradually took over, evolving from a hobby to a full-time obsession.
My experience has included glass blowing with several Hudson Valley studios in New York and workshops in blown and fused glass at Penland School of Crafts in North Carolina and Urbanglass in Brooklyn, New York.
Over the years my work has included Japanese-style art glass lamps, elegant jewelry boxes and decorative hanging panels. In the last few years I have concentrated on creating fused glass bowls, vessels and sculpture of stunning form, color and texture.
Fusing, or kiln-forming, is an ancient technique that is currently undergoing a revival. In fusing, the piece is set up cold, using a variety of techniques in common with traditional stained glass and mosaics. Firing in an electric kiln follows at temperatures up to 1800 degrees F. As many as four firings may be required to achieve the desired appearance and form. Grinding, sandblasting and polishing complete the piece.
I am influenced primarily by texture and pattern from many sources including Native American fabrics, Italian masonry, classic quilts, and wood marquetry."
--Martin Kremer