Henry Summa

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I began working in glass in 1972. My early training in the glass arts was based on apprenticeship, with emphasis on production of traditional, functional vessel forms. This period of learning was at the Glory Hole Glassworks in Santa Fe, NM. I built my first glass studio in New York State near Woodstock. After two years in New York I moved back to New Mexico with an established relationship with galleries around the United States. The last few years has found my work growing away from functional forms; these new pieces are more sculptural and complex in nature. To produce the effect that I strive for reqires extensive cutting, polishing and assembly after the glass has cooled from the blowing process. I bring an unswerving dedication to the perfecting of quality in my work as well as a continuing commitment to strive for personal growth. My work can be seen in galleries, museums and private collections around the world.

All of the glass used in my pieces are made by me from scratch. I use a base of silica sand mixed with various chemicals to create a variety of colors that are unique to my work. Since chemistry is a volatile and reactive art, each piece is affected by the endless variations of time, temperature and humidity that constantly surround us.

Another part in the creation of a piece, one that is not totally under my control is the use of volatile silver glasses. These react during the working process as well as in the slow cooling process to randomly create streaks of multi-colored hues throughout the layers.