About the Artist: Working within my studio in the Dandenong Ranges, I express my passion for glass by working the many techniques available to the medium, both modern and traditional. From classic to contemporary - windows and wall art, jewellery, bowls, platters and trophies. I create windows to order, taking commissions for churches, architects and homes. Each design and pattern is specifically made to the client request, making each piece individually tailored and unique. My Art, embodies many forms of sculptural glass, encompassing the organic and liquid nature of this exquisite medium. From kiln formed, to hand painted, stained glass pieces . "I have a wide and versatile range of designs, techniques and mediums with which I display the versatility of glass." " I love to create works which are unique, trapping organic matter within kiln-fired glass and using found or recycled materials. I need my pieces need to be pleasing to the eye, balanced, original as well as distinct." I run classes in all above mentioned techniques, from my studio in the Dandenong Ranges, showcasing and distributing my Art and Jewellery throughout Australia. Kirsten Laken is an award winning glass artist, trade certified and with over 20 years of experience. Her passion for glass is portrayed through out her work. Classes Available: All courses begin with a brief but important talk about safety and studio conduct. Lead-light and copper-foil: Lead-light and copper-foil: are a combined course where each medium can be explored if chosen. Techniques taught are design, cutting of glass, leading or copperfoiling, and soldering. This is a 3hr class with all materials and tools supplied. A minimum of 4 class needed. The first project will be to complete a sample pattern using all techniques, then onto creating a piece of choice in the medium of choice, whether it be a small Window or Wall Art for the home. During the second project students may wish to purchase a selection of glass of their choice. Accommodation for advanced students. Stain-painting: The student will be taught both the art of medieval stain-painting and contemporary styles of painting glass. A single piece of glass will be painted a minimum of 4 times, each layer of paint being fired before the next is added, to capture a timeless piece which will withstand time of over 100 yrs. This will become a family heirloom! Classes are 3 hrs and all materials and tools supplied. A minimum of 4 classes needed to complete a project and following classes of lead-light if the piece is to be leaded into a window. Kiln worked glass: Create your own jewellery, bowl, platter or glass artwork with the use of the kiln to fuse and slump glass, working with fusible and dichroic glass. Learn to cut glass, design, create and start to understand the methods of melting glass. This is a 4hr class with all materials and tools supplied. One 4hr class needed and a return day of 1hr to clean up finished work. All classes are fun and techniques are easy to learn! The emphasis on all classes is:- to give it a go and have the most enjoyment possible, try out new ideas, learn new skills and laugh a lot along the way. Classes are available for the age of 10 yrs and up to over the hill and down the other side, never too young or too old to learn the Art of Glass. Gift Vouchers Available. Please contact Kirsten for current cost of courses and running dates.