The 2016 Ames Area Studio Tour will be Saturday, October 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, October 9 from noon to 4 p.m. Over the next few weeks we'll introduce you to our artists and attempt to give you a small glimpse of what you might see when you visit their studios. We hope you are able to join us!
Find more information here.
Find more information here.
Art Ciccotti - Ciccotti Art Glass [2306 258th St., Ames]
Art grew up in California and went to college at Iowa State, which is where he discovered his love of creating. He was in the glass blowing club, and it was here that he developed an interest in this art form that has since shaped his life.
After graduating, Art built his first studio in Ames. After a few years, he moved a few miles outside of town, where he could have more space. This is where you will find his studio today.
Like many artists, Art has personally built most of his heating equipment in his studio. It was interesting to learn from him that a knowledge of welding is necessary to successfully hand blow glass.
His current favorite technique to use is called a ‘switched-axis.’ This is a method of blowing glass during which you switch the axis point, making a swirl shape in the colors. The process is tedious but it is very rewarding, and the final product is well worth it.
Art understands that most people do not realize the investment is takes to make a piece of glass. This is not only with regard to the massive equipment stock it requires, but also the complicated ‘choreographed dance,’ a glass blower must learn in order to heat and successfully shape the glass.
During The Studio Tour, Art hopes visitors have a true ‘wow’ experience. Blown glass is something we do not see very often! He is also excited for people become more aware of his location outside of Ames so that he can gain more customers.
If the Studio Tour dates do not work out for visitors, Art also has workshops during the winter. He would love to see you!
Learn more about Art Ciccotti, his work, and the Ames Area Studio Tour by visiting our website, here.
After graduating, Art built his first studio in Ames. After a few years, he moved a few miles outside of town, where he could have more space. This is where you will find his studio today.
Like many artists, Art has personally built most of his heating equipment in his studio. It was interesting to learn from him that a knowledge of welding is necessary to successfully hand blow glass.
His current favorite technique to use is called a ‘switched-axis.’ This is a method of blowing glass during which you switch the axis point, making a swirl shape in the colors. The process is tedious but it is very rewarding, and the final product is well worth it.
Art understands that most people do not realize the investment is takes to make a piece of glass. This is not only with regard to the massive equipment stock it requires, but also the complicated ‘choreographed dance,’ a glass blower must learn in order to heat and successfully shape the glass.
During The Studio Tour, Art hopes visitors have a true ‘wow’ experience. Blown glass is something we do not see very often! He is also excited for people become more aware of his location outside of Ames so that he can gain more customers.
If the Studio Tour dates do not work out for visitors, Art also has workshops during the winter. He would love to see you!
Learn more about Art Ciccotti, his work, and the Ames Area Studio Tour by visiting our website, here.