Bird's-Eye View
This intensive flameworking workshop is designed for moderate to advanced students interested in pushing both technique and creative storytelling through highly functional pipe-making. From advanced color preparation to fully realized functional builds, students will explore the relationship between character development and optimal function. The workshop will cover a wide range of techniques like ring seals, multiple styles of color preparation, murrine-making, hollow and solid sculpting, coldworking techniques and introductory latheworking fundamentals. Emphasis will be placed on developing clean construction methods and intentional design choices. A central focus of the workshop is collaborative sculpting and creative problem solving. Students should arrive prepared with a blowhose assembly, sculpting tools and sketchbooks for concept development and design planning. Prior experience with hollow work and functional construction is strongly recommended.
Calvin Mickle, also know as Calm, is recognized in the pipe making community for his lively, personified characters and his fluid, graffiti-like style. Surrounded by the local Tucson art scene, Calvin began studying glassblowing in 2006. His passions for the medium were ignited when he experienced the challenges and freedom that glassblowing offered. Enjoying bridging the gap between functional works and fine art, he continued to push the boundaries of glass with pipe-making. His work not only reflects his desert heritage, but also the skateboarding and graffiti countercultures that he identified with. His love for the medium continues to flourish as he recognizes the growing glass community and his ability to make even the slightest impact on the scene.
