Early Life and Education

Miles Van Rensselaer, an acclaimed American glass artist, grew up in Mendham, New Jersey, and currently resides in Phillipsburg, NJ. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Kenyon College, double-majoring in Sculpture and English. During his time at Kenyon, Miles also studied Indonesian language, mask-making, and woodcarving with Javanese and Balinese masters through the Council on International Educational Exchange in Indonesia. This diverse educational background profoundly influenced his artistic style and philosophy.

Artistic Career and Style

Miles Van Rensselaer has been a professional artist for over 15 years. His first solo exhibition took place at Heller Gallery in New York City in 2005. Known for his unique juxtapositions of material and concept, Miles’ works often blend traditional techniques with modern materials, creating sculptures that are both innovative and deeply rooted in cultural traditions. He has worked with a wide range of materials, including glass, crystal, bronze, iron, gold, silver, tooth, bone, steel, copper, lead, wood, clay, feather, and hair. His work is a homage to the traditional cultures and techniques he has studied, translated into contemporary Western materials.

Notable Exhibitions

Miles Van Rensselaer has participated in numerous exhibitions across the United States and internationally. Some of his significant exhibitions include:

• Heller Gallery, NYC (2005): His first solo show.
• SOFO Chicago: Featured his monumental “Maori Moko” series, with slumped and carved glass heads presented 16 feet in the air.
• Art Palm Beach: Another display of his “Maori Moko” series, with sculptures emerging from the floor of the grand entrance.
• Primal Inspirations: A two-year traveling museum exhibition, currently at The Muskegon Museum.
• Habatat Michigan’s International Invitational Exhibition: Showcased his works in a prestigious annual event.
  
  

Awards and Recognition

Miles Van Rensselaer has received several accolades throughout his career, highlighting his contributions to the field of glass art:

• Merit Scholarships from UrbanGlass and the Pittsburgh Glass Center.
• Two Niche Awards: Recognizing excellence and innovation in American craft.
• Three Contemporary Glass Philadelphia Grants: Supporting his ongoing artistic endeavors.
  
  

Representation and Collections

Miles Van Rensselaer is represented by several prominent galleries, including:

• Sandra Ainsley Gallery, Toronto: The leading contemporary glass art gallery in Canada.
• Studio 7 Fine Art Gallery, Bernardsville.
• Heller Gallery, NYC.
• Wexler Gallery, Philadelphia.
• Habatat Gallery, NC.
  
  

His works are also part of permanent collections, such as the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia.

Personal Life and Studio

Miles has converted an abandoned marble quarry along the Delaware River into a modern bronze foundry, where he lives and works. This unique setting provides him with a distinctive environment to create and innovate.

Conclusion

Miles Van Rensselaer’s career is a testament to his dedication to blending traditional techniques with contemporary materials, creating works that resonate with cultural significance and modern aesthetics. His numerous exhibitions, awards, and representation by leading galleries underscore his impact and prominence in the world of glass art.