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Glass making began in Europe in the 8^th century, and flourished primarily near Venice for more than a millennium. Glass making became such an important industry that in 1291 the Venetian government, fearing fires from the many glass foundries, ordered all of the glass craftsmen to move their operations to the nearby island of Murano. From Murano, glass makers perfected their craft, and developed new techniques that are still identified as true Murano glass.

This winter I was inspired to work on some new winter scenes.  It's been a few years since I've tried to reproduce winter or snow in my work.  I found some great winter images from photographer John Brownlow, who was kind enough to grant me permission to use them.

These images are so serene... I can imagine standing in these woods, and almost hearing snow flakes fall.  I love the dark, solitary tree in the foreground, with the woods faintly in the background.

I usually have my pieces professionally photographed twice a year, by photographer and fellow glass artiust Eric Bladholm.  Eric runs Chicago Glass Works, and had a great studio not far from downtwon Chicago, in an old industrial building. 

I wanted to let you all know that my glass panels are now represented at The Leigh Gallery, which is at 3306 N. Halsted, in Chicago (between Belmont and Addison).  I've followed The Leigh Gallery for some time now (you can also find them at http://www.theleighgallery.com).  They have a great selection of artists from many media, and represent many Chicago area artists.  I like the fact that owner Jean Leigh also represents several other Chicago area glass artists, so there's lots to see when you go there.

Well I haven't written a blog entry in awhile.  No excuses, really... it's good to take a break sometimes, and I've been pretty focused on completing some commissioned works through the fall and early winter.  I'm now starting on some new pieces... so stay tuned for "first looks" at what is coming in 2013!

Do you remember the first time you saw your favorite painting, smelled a wonderful rose, or met your soulmate? These milestone experiences are hard to forget.

Here is one more recently completed work, which will be available in Royal Oak.  This one is larger than most that I've been doing this year... still 10" wide but 13" tall.  The original image is from a photo by Robert DeLeskie. 

I've recently completed a new piece called Tividale Park.  This one is based on a photo from UK photographer Graham Chance.

I was immediately drawn to this picture - I like how the trees virtually disappear into the mist.  You can almost feel the water droplets as they consume everything in sight!

This work will be available at the Royal Oak Clay, Glass, and Metal show on June 9-10, in Royal Oak MI.

After doing the show in Royal Oak on June 9-10, I will head down to Toledo for a week of education and networking.

Heather Hancock creates beautiful glass mosaics.