DAVID LEE SMITH, PHD.

INSPIRATION

As a scientist-artist, I'm inspired by the stories told through texture, color, and form in the natural world. I began my journey as a geologist unraveling the mysteries of rocks and I then evolved into shaping molten glass into art. The glass I use mirrors the silica-rich magma of volcanoes, connecting my work in the studio to Earth's dynamic forces.

Working with hot glass requires finesse. The material is fluid, demanding an immediate response, requiring skill and precision. This fluidity also invites expression and improvisation. This interplay fuels my creativity, blending material science with artistry. It's like jazz: harmonizing control and spontaneity. Jazz with magma.

PROCESS

My work focuses on vessels and sculptures across four lines of work. In one approach, I draw from the textures and colors of natural materials, creating detailed patterns and a sense of depth by layering glass color with painterly gestures, using murrine (disks of patterned glass), or applying stringers or rods of colored glass to surfaces to provide visual texture and movement. I also play with modification of the smooth surface of blown forms by carving and polishing. This gives me pieces with noticeable texture, topography, and optical effects.

I have recently begun to combine blown forms with plasmas of inert gasses to generate moving and changing light from within the pieces. These works have he added dimension of responding to touch in dynamic ways. The fourth line of work celebrates functional forms, crafting everyday objects with simplicity and purpose. These threads often intertwine, creating pieces that bridge form, function, and story.

Experience

  • ArtsQuest Glass Studio

    Bethlehem, PA

  • Corning Museum of Glass Studio

    Corning, NY

  • Urban Glass

    Brooklyn, NY

  • Salem Art Works

    Salem, NY

JOURNEY

My first love was geology. As a research scientist, I unraveled the geological mysteries of central Nevada, earning a Ph.D. in Geology from Stanford, and assessed earthquake hazards along California's coastline. In 2002, I moved to Pennsylvania, where I joined the geology and physics faculty of La Salle University and co-directed an institute dedicated to transforming science and math education. Later, at the Da Vinci Science Center, I spearheaded teacher development programs and strategic initiatives. Working with the legacy of Leonardo sparked a deep curiosity about the intersection of art and science.

Since diving into glass art full-time in 2017, I have poured my scientific curiosity and creative spirit into my work. To bring my inspirations of the natural world to life, I use classical techniques of glassblowing. I re-imagine these ancient techniques with contemporary flair to create one-of-a-kind vessels and abstract sculptures.

When I'm not shaping unique and colorful glass forms, I continue sharing my passion for education as a consultant and champion for integrating art with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEAM).

COMMISSIONS

I love collaborating with clients on commissioned pieces, turning your ideas into fine art.

Contact me directly about custom commissions using the link below or by email at info@hyalineexpressions.com

CONTACT