GARTNER BLADE glass is the work of Stephen
Gartner and Danielle Blade. Business partners
since 1995, Danielle and Stephen combine their
individual ideas, techniques, and experiences to
create original works in handblown and sculpted
glass. Over the past decade, they have been
developing a series of pieces that explore their
interpretation of objects of ritual and worship.
The inspiration for these pieces is rooted in
nature and begins with their mutual fascination
with the use of found objects in the rituals of
primitive cultures. In these pieces they hope to
convey a reverence for and an understanding of
the value of our natural resources.
Natural elements such as bone, antler, wood,
vines, fossils and rock formations have inspired
their signature designs which include covered
vessels, chalices and sculptural amulets. Their
work combines traditional handblown technique
with innovative color application and original
sculpting techniques.
Prior to opening their own studio both Stephen
and Danielle studied with prominent American and
European glass artists. Both woked as glasshouse
gaffers and glassblowing instructors.
Danielle Blade was born in 1967 on the Isle of
Wight, England. She is the daughter of British
glass artist Martin Evans, and moved to the
United States in 1985.
Stephen Gartner was born in 1964 in Phoenix,
Arizona and grew up in the Southern United States
and Europe.