The vastness of what we still do not understand about glass and the leaps and bounds of knowledge and technical advancement gained over the past forty years makes glass a wonderful material for an artist. Glass is an open frontier, a constantly changing landscape of possibilities. Steve and Kelly use technology to look into the past. While the world changes and fills in, so too does the place they call home. Where there once was a farmer’s barn and countless rows of vineyards and orchards, now stand homes for growing families. While urban sprawl could be a road where an artist wanders, Steve and Kelly miss the barns that held the livelihood of the community within their post and beam belly. These old structures, a beautiful symbol of determination, hard work and excellent craftsmanship now swell and sag from neglect. The barn was a symbol of the future; the possibilities of hope, prosperity, and freedom. This is why they are left standing in our neighborhoods today. How could one want to forget the foundations of a strong community and aesthetic?

Their passion for making glass art has taken them around the country exploring unique communities and giving teachers. Steve has had the opportunity to study under Richard Harned, a student of Chihuly, while vastly different, Harned shares the same wonderment of glass; Henry Halem, a founding father of art glass here in the United States and champion designer of the modern glass shop; and Michael Rogers, the world’s advocate for glass. Rogers is asked to travel the world over to speak on art philosophy and structures for glass education. Kelly has had the opportunity to study with Ruth King, a master glassblower and sculpture; Claire Bellfraidge, a wonderful teacher and gallery artist; and Karen Willenbrink-Johnson, a master glass sculpture working with Willliam Morris. 

Steve and Kelly own and operate a custom glass art design and fabrication studio called Obsidian Workshop.  Through this business they work independently and with other designers to create one-of-a-kind works of glass art for the home.  In addition to their pursuit of art and custom work, they strive to education the community about glass through classes, demonstrations, and workshops.  They are currently living in Carbondale, Colorado.