Susie
Blackstien-Adler
My journey with glass fusing began as part of my search for continued creativity and purpose as my schedule opened up. I was drawn to the luminous, reflective nature of glass and the endless possibilities it offers—playing with color, depth, and texture through various techniques quickly became both a passion and an artistic outlet.
What I love about glass fusing is that it's an art form I can practice in a home studio while still connecting with online and local glassmaking communities. Over time, I’ve explored a range of techniques, including glass casting with both ready-made and handmade molds, mosaic work, stringer art, powder migration, and even creating my own glass. My pieces range from Judaic art and functional tableware to sculptural and wall-mounted works. Some are grounded in realism, while others emerge as abstract expressions.
Each project has its own rhythm—some begin with a detailed sketch, while others unfold more intuitively through hands-on experimentation. Once the design is in place, the process of cutting, assembling, and firing begins. Many pieces go through multiple firings, with cold working often needed in between. While planning and precision are essential, there’s always an element of surprise when the kiln is opened!
From the moment I began fusing glass, I was hooked. There’s still so much to discover, and with each new technique I explore, I find new ways to express my creativity.
Paula
Blackstien-Hirsch
My creative interest in ceramics several years ago has evolved into a passion that I find inspirational, meditative and deeply engaging. I am drawn to the vast range of forms that can be shaped from clay—and equally captivated (and at times, frustrated!) by the many variables involved in the making, glazing, and firing that all contribute to the final product.
Working from a home studio, I create everyday functional ware, an emerging line of contemporary Judaica, and some sculptural pieces. My goal is to create elegant objects that will be treasured each time one is lifted from a shelf or tabletop. My work is rooted in experimentation. Each piece combines the dynamic interplay of materials and surface. I’m especially drawn to transitions—where glaze meets raw clay, or where multiple glazes overlap and melt together, creating movement, depth, and surprise. These reactive effects, born from glaze chemistry and kiln programming, are what fascinate me most. My work is inspired by the elegance of contemporary design: clean lines and curved surfaces that enable flow.
I work primarily with stoneware, forming pieces on the wheel, by slab, or through a combination of both. I mix many of my glazes from raw materials, and layer them, sometimes combining them with commercial glazes, underglazes, and overglazes, and use other surface techniques such as slip, applique, and carving. Fired in an electric kiln, each unique piece reflects my continuing exploration of both form and finish.