Glass Art: Three Perspectives

Originally from Liverpool, NY, Heather Hennigan and her husband Michael recently relocated to the shores of Montario Point, a place she spent her childhood summers and continues to deeply influence her work. Heather dove head first down the glass rabbit hole in 2002, exploring many aspects of glass art, including fusing, flamework and mosaics. Originally she worked exclusively on a torch using flamework techniques in creating one-of-kind “art-you-wear” jewelry. Currently she is concentrating on kiln shaped glass and working in a series. She uses glass in many forms, from sheets to powders, often including metals and enamels to create her work. By taking advantage of the interplay of the various properties of glass, including its transparency, light refraction, and opacity, she creates contemporary glass sculptures.

She is involved in both international as well as regional glass art groups and has traveled extensively in the USA, Canada and Europe to gain wide knowledge and techniques to use in her work. But her greatest motivation is taking what she has learned to push the boundaries and "rules" to create original commissioned work that surprises and intrigues the viewer.

ARTIST'S STATEMENT: “My work aims to use the fluidity and beauty of glass to represent the imperfections and intricate ever-changing nature of life. Through my creations, I hope to evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.”

Diane Melnik is a stained glass artist known for her inspiring use of color and light. With 20 years of experience, she creates both traditional foiled stained glass pieces and intricate mosaics, continually exploring new ways to blend color, texture, and light.

After relocating from the Hudson Valley to the Pulaski area with her husband Pete, she discovered the Salmon River Fine Arts Center and it quickly became her "artistic home." Now serving as a board member, she finds great joy in teaching classes and sharing her passion for stained glass, helping others explore their creative possibilities.

ARTIST'S STATEMENT: “As a licensed optician for over 40 years, I have always been captivated by the miracle of light and color. That fascination led me to stained glass, where I could explore those elements in a hands-on, creative way. I began making traditional foiled stained glass pieces 20 years ago, and over time, I found new inspiration in using leftover scraps, which sparked my passion for mosaics. For the past eight years, I have embraced this art form, combining glass in new ways to capture and reflect light.