Wendy Saxon-Brown, born in 1953, is a renowned American glass artist celebrated for her innovative figurative sculptures and reliefs. Her unique approach to glass art combines traditional techniques with cutting-edge methods, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with this versatile medium.

Education and Early Career

Saxon-Brown’s artistic journey began with formal education at prestigious institutions:

• Attended Washington University in St. Louis, MO (1972-1973)
• Earned a BFA in Sculpture from the Rhode Island School of Design in 1976
• Studied traditional brush painting with Sun Chen in Shia Lee, Taiwan (1975-1978)
  
  

Following her education, Saxon-Brown’s early career included:

• Artist-in-residence at Paul King Foundry
• Teaching Chinese brush painting at Phoenicia Art Forge, Phoenicia, NY (1978-1980)
  
  

Artistic Techniques and Style

In 1982, Saxon-Brown began experimenting with sandblasting glass, a technique that would become a hallmark of her work. Her process involves:

• Using high-pressure abrasives to erode glass
• Carving from the back of the glass to create a reverse image
• Employing rubber stencils to control the abrasive’s impact
• Applying oil-based color to the rough, sandblasted areas
  
  

Saxon-Brown’s artistic style is characterized by:

• Figurative sculptures and reliefs that speak to viewers on a personal level
• Aggressive use of color and varied depth in pâte de verre pieces
• Incorporation of life drawings into her glass designs
• Creation of 3D sculptures using the lost wax method
  
  

Notable Works and Techniques

Saxon-Brown’s portfolio includes various techniques and styles:

• Pâte de Verre Reliefs: These pieces combine colored glass frit to create a wide palette, with some areas blended and others achieving a pointillist effect
• Reverse Reliefs: Sculptures impressed on the back with clear glass melted on top, creating the illusion of being captured inside the glass
• 3D Sculptures: Cast using the lost wax method, often featuring multiple colors achieved through a complex process of cutting and reassembling wax molds
  
  

Legacy and Impact

Wendy Saxon-Brown’s contributions to glass art are significant:

• She has pushed the boundaries of glass sculpture, particularly in relief work
• Her innovative use of color and form in pâte de verre has opened new possibilities in glass art
• Saxon-Brown’s figurative work continues to inspire and challenge viewers, reflecting human experiences and emotions
  
  

Wendy Saxon-Brown remains an influential figure in the world of contemporary glass art, with her works sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts alike. Her unique approach to glass sculpture, combining traditional techniques with innovative methods, has secured her place as a pioneering artist in the field.