Moderator: Linda Seckelson, Head of Reader Services, Thomas J. Watson Library, Metropolitan Museum of Art

Sponsor: Decorative Arts Round Table

This session focused on contemporary and historic glass makers from the Ohio Valley and other parts of the United States. Kathleen Mulcahey, a glass artist living in Pittsburgh, began the session with a slide presentation detailing inspirations, processes, and artifacts used in producing her work.  She illustrated the entire procedure (from concept to finished work) for creating one of her glass creations.  Amy Morgan, Director of Amy Morgan Glass Gallery in Pittsburgh, then spoke on other contemporary glass artists around the country and area.  Amy’s slide talk included artists using diverse processes in their art –mixed media, reverse painting techniques, figurines, cast work, and blown and molded pieces.  The session ended with a slide presentation by Rev. Arnold Klukas, Rector of Grace Episcopal Church and art historian. Rev. Klukas began with an overview of the glass industry in Pittsburgh – a topic originally to be covered by Dr.James Measell of the Fenton Glass Company who was unable to attend the session.  The major focus of Klukas’ talk was on the stained glass artists in Pittsburgh.  He noted major historic figures –both artists and promoters –in the stained glass field in the area including Connick, Willet, Tiffany, and Hunt.   Elizabeth Gulacsy, Art Librarian, Scholes Library, New York State College of Ceramics created a bibliography on glass artists of the area that was distributed at the session