Biography
Tom Marosz is an acclaimed glass artist known for his innovative manipulation of light and glass. His journey into the world of glass art began early, with teenage interests in photography and optics that led to pioneering holography projects in the 1960s. His work was so advanced that he collaborated with the Navy Electronics Lab team in Point Loma during this period.
Early Career and Transition to Art
Marosz spent 15 years in the construction industry as a glazing contractor, where he developed a reputation for accomplishing tasks others deemed impossible. This experience honed his skills in cold working, cutting, and polishing glass, which he later applied to his art. His transition from construction to art allowed him to explore the creative possibilities of glass, leading to the creation of stunning sculptures using optic crystal, dichroic coatings, and kiln fusing.
Major Installations
Marosz’s expertise has enabled him to undertake several large-scale installations:
- Vantage Pointe Sculpture: A lit glass winged water feature standing over 18 feet tall, located at the entrance to downtown San Diego.
- Law School of British Columbia: A four-story installation featuring 450 suspended glass spheres.
- Viejas Hotel and Casino: In 2013, he created several glass features for the remodel, including jumbo glass panels fused with colors and textures reflective of the Viejas Kumeyaay Indian culture.
Artistic Philosophy
Marosz’s art is a reflection of his life’s experiences, both good and bad, combined with his mastery of glass manipulation. He is fascinated by light and strives to control it in ways that surprise and engage viewers. His work often incorporates negative space to tell a story, as seen in his piece “Tear For Henry,” dedicated to his father.
Exhibitions
Tom Marosz has exhibited his work extensively, both in the United States and internationally. Some notable exhibitions include:
- 2019: Palm Beach Art Show, Florida; Context, Miami
- 2018: SOFA, Chicago; Boca Raton Art Show; Palm Beach Art Show, Florida; Context, Miami
- 2017: Boca Raton Art Show; Context, Miami; SOFA, Chicago; International Art Show, Boston; ACA Fine Art Contest & Exhibit, Cincinnati, OH; Cube Art Fair: The American Art Fair of Brussels, Belgium; Palm Beach Art Show, Florida
- 2016: Art Hamptons; Palm Beach Art Show, Florida; SOFA, Chicago
- 2015: SOFA, Chicago
- 2007: Solo Exhibition at Collectors Fine Art, Las Vegas, NV
- 2006: Solo Exhibition at Collectors Fine Art of Kauai, HI
- 2004: Solo Exhibitions at Artesia, Vail, CO; Le Jardin Des Arts, Denver, CO
- 2003: Solo Exhibition at Artesia, Vail, CO
- 2002: Solo Exhibition at Reflections, Palm Springs, CA
Awards and Recognition
Marosz has received several awards throughout his career, including:
- 2012: People’s Choice Award, Southern California Glass Art Society
- 2000: National Science Foundation Grant for Holographic Research
- 1994: Award of Merit, San Diego Art Institute
- 1993: Best in Show, San Diego Art Institute
Conclusion
Tom Marosz continues to push the boundaries of glass art, creating pieces that captivate and inspire. His work is a testament to his lifelong passion for light and glass, and his ability to transform these elements into breathtaking sculptures enjoyed by collectors and the public alike.