Press Releases 2006
Marble Weekend
CONTACT: Janet Peterson, Marketing and
Public Relations Director
TEL: (856) 825-6800, Ext. 108
FAX: (856) 825-2410
E-MAIL: jpeterson@wheatonvillage.org
MARBLE
WEEKEND AT
Geoffrey Beetem is regarded by many in the contemporary
handmade marble field as the master glass artist in the use of dichroic glass (NASA developed dichroic glass for use in
face shields in space suits. Multiple micro-thin layers of different metals - gold,
silver, titanium, chromium, aluminum, zirconium, magnesium, silicon - are
applied to the surface of the glass. The glass is then kiln fired at extreme
temperatures in a vacuum. It is then fused (layered) with other glass in
multiple firings. Certain wavelengths of light will either pass through or be
reflected, causing the array of color. The result can never be re-created and
is different every time.)
He is an artist who continues to explore the rich colors
and uniquely personal designs that have become hallmarks for the studio glass artist. Beetem’s
well known Stardust Marbles concept
originated from his concept of cosmic debris trailing a comet as it flies at
thousands of miles an hour through space. The resulting dust is referred to as
stardust. He says, “The dichroic glass created the effect of a frozen
crystalline object. In the stardust V-lobe, the
design is spiraling through the center core, much like that of an endless
staircase.”
Beetem’s works continue to expand the boundaries of
sculptural glasswork. His artistry is a true testament to the creative process, imaginative artistry
and technological advancements. He is ranked as one of the premier glass
craftsmen working today. Each Beetem marble has the ability to advance a
collection by offering hands-on insight into color theory, technical skill and
personal interest this artist employs in each hand-crafted piece. His work,
exhibited in galleries throughout the world and many of the finest permanent
collections and museum displays, will long be sought after by collectors
acquiring the finest contemporary handmade glass marbles of the studio glass
movement.
Weekend
registration includes a Friday evening special demonstration by Beetem followed
by a private
reception for all artists, dealers and registered collectors. The sales floor
is open 7 to 9 p.m. Also, registrants attend a “Breakfast with the Artists” on
June 23, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. The Village glass artists join the participating
marble artists in a collaborative session to create a one-of-a-kind glass
piece. The finished piece will be auctioned on June 25.
Photography Available
