I watched as he worked for hours on his latest creation. He was fond of saying that every moment he had spent on this earth was preparation for this new gift he was bringing into the world.
He took his work very seriously and had a collection of professional achievements that spoke of his commitment and intensity.
His work is part of important collections, is on display in museums around the world, and regularly sells out before his shows even open.
In short, he is a big deal in the world of art glass.
With rivers of sweat pouring off his body (his furnace clocks in at around 1800’) he altered between blowing, spinning, and manipulating the glowing orb of molten glass. With every gesture the piece took shape. Nothing was being crafted into something.
Energy in the studio mounted. It was time to separate the piece from the punty and all eyes were on him. He moved his jack (that tong-like tool) to separate the piece and as he did the piece shattered.
I froze and seconds later became nauseous. All that work gone.
He noticed my angst and calmly stated, “I break a lot of glass, every day. It’s just not a thing anymore.”
While I may fail daily; I never stop learning.