It’s amazing how different glass can look when illuminated! This is a photo of the base of a hurricane lamp that is lit from behind by a single candle. I love the play of light and shadow, and how the illumination from the candle accentuates the curves, design, and colors of the lamp. A photo like this would be a great conversation piece if displayed in a den or living room. Your guests will marvel at your unique art piece while trying to guess what’s actually pictured. A similar photo can easily be taken using a piece of glass of your choice illuminated by a candle. So what are you waiting for? With a few items and a camera, you can create a great photo to decorate your space!
Tag Archives: glass
Thanksgiving Decor: Part 4
In this final Thanksgiving post I’ll be sharing how to dress up your table! Since my family only use three of the six chairs at the dining table, that allows me to decorate the half not in use. Below you’ll see a few pictures from this year’s table. I have our traditional poinsettia tablecloth adorned with various decorations.
I have pumpkins, leaves, a festive flower arrangement, and a turkey. The majority of the decorations on the table were purchased at craft stores. The glass pumpkin in the center of the table was purchased at a glass studio. You can find great pieces at reasonable prices at many glass studios, so keep your eye out for pieces that can be used both year-round and on special occasions.
At the center of the table I have a vase filled with various autumn foliage and a small turkey. The foliage brings together all the elements in the room, and the turkey adds a bit of whimsy to the table.
I hope you enjoyed my Thanksgiving decor and found inspiration for your own space. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Wall of Venetian Art
This picture was taken at the center section of the museum bridge. This installation is called the Venetian Wall, and is made up of 109 different glass sculptures. Despite the size of this art piece, it is possible to replicate this in a small space. Choose a bookshelf that fits your space (many are on sale this time of year), and fill part or all of it with glass pieces. These can be any style you want and can be purchased at big box, craft, or second-hand stores. Display a wide variety of colors and shapes to get the feel of the wall in my photo. Not only will your wall create a conversation piece, but will also let you show off beautiful art!
Bridge of Glass: Towers
This picture is another art installation along the Chihuly Bridge of Glass. It’s a photo of the Crystal Towers, which marks the center of the bridge. Blue is one of my favorite colors, so I had to get a shot of these tall pieces of art. At night the towers are illuminated, thus being a focal point both during the day and in the evening. Do you have a local landmark that lights up at night? Take pictures of it during the day and at night, and then display the photos on your wall. This will give the object you photograph two distinct looks. Whether you decide to display both images at once or swap them out with the seasons, you can have two unique perspectives on a local landmark!
Bridge of Glass: Ceiling
This is a picture of an art installation, named the Seaform Pavilion, adjacent to the museum I’ve previously blogged about. The ceiling is part of the Chihuly Bridge of Glass. It’s part of a bridge that spans over a highway and links two different museums. As I was crossing the bridge I was surprised to look up and see this beautiful ceiling. I love how they layered the various pieces above the main glass panel. Though it may seem impossible, you can get this look in your very own space. If you have a glass table with a display space underneath, you can layer various glass pieces from a craft or second-hand store underneath. You could also purchase a shallow bowl or apothecary jar and use the same layering technique to display you favorite pieces. The best part? Since you created it, it will be the perfect reflection of your style and personality!
The Glass Sea Shell
This picture is from the same exhibit mentioned in one of my previous posts. When I saw this piece, it reminded me of sea shells I’d find along the beach. Though I doubt it’s suppose to be a shell, I couldn’t help but make the comparison. Over the years I’ve purchased small glass shells in various colors that I picked up on vacation. They’re great for displaying on a table or grouping together in a bowl. They can usually be found in gift shops along the coast, online, or at a craft store. Glass shells are a great way to add a touch of the ocean to any space. No matter your space, you can have a reminder of the ocean anytime you choose.
The Glass Town
This is a photo of a town etched in glass. It’s part of an exhibit called “CAUTION! Fragile. Irish Glass: Tradition in Transition” by artist Róisín de Buitléar. I’ve always had a fondness for etched glass, and when I saw this piece I just had to take a photo! Since etched glass pieces are usually always made of clear glass, they’re the perfect addition to any shelf or nook. Simple etched glass pieces can be found at gift shops or online for a reasonable price. If you prefer something more complex or similar to the art in my photo, you’re best bet is to peruse an art gallery. Looking to be creative? You can also buy glass etching kits at your local craft store. Add interest to a vase, lamp, mirror, or any other piece you’d like. No matter your budget or tastes, you’ll be able to find a piece that’s all you!
The Wall of Spheres
I saw this wall of different colored spheres at the museum and thought it looked great! While I wouldn’t recommend doing this to an entire wall in your own home, there are ways you can integrate this look into your space. One option is to take a book shelf (or any shelves) and add colorful glass floats as decoration. These can be bought online, at museum gift shops, or stores along your nearest coast. Need a more economical option? You can also use colored glass globes that are available at most craft stores. A second option is to find a wall similar to the one pictured and put a photo of it on your wall. There are even some online companies that will enlarge it to mural-size. Whichever option you choose, you can have a wall that stands out and will give your space a colorful, modern look.
The Glass Sculpture
Outside the entrance to the museum mentioned in my previous post is a glass sculpture installation in a shallow pool. This gives you a great first impression of what lies inside for museum visitors. Additionally, the museum is bordered by a waterway, so you have water elements all around you. The clear glass used in this sculpture is a great way to display art without having it take away or clash with the surrounding environment. Likewise, this same sort of element can work when decorating your space. Try buying clear glass in various shapes (globes, vases, boxes, stars, etc.) and display them together on a shelf or table. These can be purchased at your local craft or big box store. Once you’re done, you’ll have art that not only transforms your space, but also gives it an air of sophistication!
Etched Glass Lighting
When I saw this beautiful etched glass pendant light I thought it was a great way to add sophistication to what would normally be plain glass. As to not overwhelm the space, only every other light contained an etched image. While this look may seem complicated and expensive, it can be far from it if you know where to look. A plain glass light fixture can either be found in your home, or purchased from a local big box or hardware store. Once you have the fixture, you can pick up a glass etching kit at your local craft store (read the back to make sure the kit is heat safe). Now that you’ve got your supplies, it’s time to create! Did you create a look that’s whimsical, classic, fun, or unique? No matter the design, the look should reflect the feel of the space and your personal tastes.
Inspiration In A Photo 