Michael Mikula

For more than two decades now, Michael Mikula has explored a process using carved graphite molds to form blown glass vessels and decorative objects – all inspired by some aspect of architectural form, detail or pattern. Most recently, these vessels have evolved into sculptural / architectural panels he calls, “Architectural Blown Glass”.The whole process begins with designing, cutting and carving the graphite. Molten glass releases cleanly from this material, keeping a glassy & transparent surface. Each mold is composed from the artist’s large and growing library of interchangeable parts, often arranged differently with each use. This allows for a jazz-like sense of play or improvisation in the creation of each thematic piece. Michael says, “Think of a Louise Nevelson sculpture, and you can imagine what a mold looks like as molten glass fills the form – taking it’s shape in reverse – and with color!”Once cooled, the resulting deeply dimensional “blanks” are cut apart with a diamond edged blade. Each of the resulting sections is then polished and finally, thoughtfully, recomposed within an integral metal armature.The sturdy modular structural system Michael has devised is “built to last the ages”, and can be adapted to multiple applications and sizes, from the free-standing panels shown, to art glass windows, doors, lighting and larger site specific wall installations.Use of color is purposefully understated to focus attention on form and how light is captured and refracted through it. Much of the interest is in viewing the imagery (seen in reverse) through the material itself. The textured exterior surface plays beautifully against the undulating blown interior surface of each gem-like piece.”My ultimate goal is that each piece I create be a well designed, well crafted object with integrity and lasting value”.