Step into a world where glass meets artistry at our upcoming art show, ‘Piece by Piece.’ The beauty of glass is interpreted through the hands of four artists, each with their own unique approach to glass as a medium for creative expression. Explore the intricate work of stained glass artist Gary Chaudoir, the vibrant fusion of colors by Barb and Doug Henderson, and stand back and admire the detailed and realistic mosaic creations by Joe Kaftan. Each piece tells a unique story, inviting you to experience the artistry of glass in its many forms. Join us for the next art show at the Kress Pavillion in Egg Harbor June 1st-September 27th. There will be an opening reception on June 12th from 5-7. The public is encouraged to attend and enjoy the artwork and talk with the artists.
Gary Chaudoir, Sister bay WI
Stained Glass
Gary Chaudoir is a distinguished stained glass artist based in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. With a passion for creativity and craftsmanship, he has honed his skills over decades, mastering the intricate techniques of stained glass design and fabrication. Gary’s work reflects a deep appreciation for both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics, blending timeless beauty with modern innovation. His stunning creations adorn churches, homes, and public spaces, captivating viewers with their vibrant colors and exquisite detail. Inspired by the natural beauty of Door County and beyond, Gary infuses each piece with a sense of wonder and reverence for the world around us. Through his artistry, Gary Chaudoir continues to leave a lasting impression on the world of stained glass, enriching lives with the beauty of his creations.
I am extremely grateful for my 46 year career in stained glass in Door County. It’s been very rewarding to work with clients to bring to life their early thoughts on a glass project. I especially enjoy the first stage of a project – the drawing. I receive request for projects in many different drawing styles- Victorian, Art Nouveau, Mission, FLLW, Contemporary or Abstract. Researching the details of the different period styles and applying my own interpretation to individual projects becomes an unexpected personal reward. Door County’s abundant natural beauty becomes the focus for many of my client’s projects such as water vistas, shorelines, escarpments, lighthouses and boating.
Barbara & Doug Henderson,
Fused Glass
Doug Henderson
Making “art” was a dream that materialized in photography during my career working for not-for-profit organizations. After retirement I decided that I wanted to do something just for me and the “dream” materialized again, but this time in the form of fused (kiln formed) glass. I am currently experimenting with the “strip cut” fused glass technique, developing cast glass pieces and three dimensional houses.I hope that you enjoy the final products as much as I am enjoying the process and the journey!
Barbara Henderson
I have always been a maker of things and a collector of stuff. I have been a sewer, a weaver, a stitcher, a knitter, a knotter, a batiker, a doll maker, a mosaicer, a gardener. My current explorations are in fused (kiln formed) glass. I am an avid gardener and use glass as a medium to interpret floral and botanic forms and shapes. I am always inspired by the shapes and textures in my garden and this inspiration is reflected in the textural and organic nature of my work.
Joe Kaftan, Seattle WA
Glass Mosaic
BIO
Joseph Kaftan was born in northern Wisconsin. His mother was a newspaper photographer and his father a self-taught sculptor and mosaicist. Joseph studied Fine Arts at UW-Madison and Graphic Design at The American University in Washington, D.C. He worked both in advertising agencies and later as a freelancer, designing CD and book covers.
In 2006, he began his first mosaic as a way to work with his aging father. He didn’t finish that first piece until several years later, but when he did, it awakened a renewed interest in the medium and in 2012 he began creating mosaics in earnest. He has a studio in Seattle on the Puget Sound, and at his family cottage on Lake Michigan. Joseph teaches workshops nationally, including The Miller Art Museum. His work can be seen at Edgewood Orchard Galleries in Fish Creek, WI.
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
From an early age, I’ve been attracted to colored light. I found beauty in the kaleidoscopic patterns of fireworks and the prismatic rays created by sunlight passing through a family glass collection on a window ledge. Searching for the iconic and sacred in the everyday, I like to depict the beauty in the natural world that I experience.
Working with sheet glass, manipulating its transparency and reflectiveness, has provided me with the ability to express myself through light and color. I enjoy the physicality of working with glass. The tactile practice of cutting and shaping each piece feels like I am painting with light. The pieces build on each other to create motion and dynamism, much like a brushstroke.
I hope to draw the viewer of my art into a moment of reflection on the subject through the use of emotive color palettes and the reflective glass. I find glass enhances that contemplative experience, and the play of color and light can allow an intimate immediacy.
