Sharon Bachner

The quality that I strive for most in my work is a sense of cohesion. I have a particular interest in exploring edges, both literal and figurative, that delineate and separate. Boundaries exist between different groups or colors within a composition and a society. Despite the boundaries, we are all fundamentally and inextricably intertwined on a spiritual level.

I keep a sketchbook of visual ideas and develop the most interesting ones into detailed compositions. I work backward from the two-dimensional image developing a plan to create the various elements of the design. My work integrates layered surfaces, borders, and textures and involves multiple techniques and media. New projects often require a unique approach and I frequently learn and implement new methods with each design. My work has used a wide variety of stained and patterned glass, glass cane, fused glass, sheet metal, wire, found metal, metal leaf, polymer clay, clay cane, glass beads, shattered tempered glass, and lenticular sheets. With every work comes a new composition as well as a new method of integrating materials.

I am fascinated by the tension that can be created by contrasting colors, patterns, and textures using many layers and mosaic pieces. I explore in my art the concept of the singular within the plural, from cells in an organism to the sole individual within a community.