Artist Jacki Cohen presents a delightfully colorful collection of fused glass platters and sculpture. Visit her website to see more of her work.
“Pop of Chaos” glass, 18″ diameter
My life as a professional artist was not planned. It evolved for over nearly 20 years. I have always felt a sense of artistic creativity that I explored while my children were in school. At that time, I was a stay-at-home mom with a formal education in business marketing.
“Celebrate” glass, 12″ x 16″
I dabbled in many artistic mediums, but was always an admirer of fused glass. This led me to explore fused glass art as a hobby. I took classes at a local art studio. Each year I took more classes.
“Eighteen” glass, 2″ x 2″ x 36″
I fell in love with the blank slate that the raw materials provided, allowing me to score, cut and adhere different unique pieces to create something that truly gave me a sense of pride in the art I created. After many years of fusing glass as a hobby, I realized that I had found my true artist passion.
“Energy” glass, 13″ x 13″ x 3″
My family and friends were supportive of my glass work and encouraged me to start pursing glass art professionally. Although I didn’t feel like a professional and I did not have my own studio or kiln, I considered what my friends and family said and decided to pursue my passion.
“Synergy Reimagined” glass, 8″ x 8″ x 3″
Utilizing my background in business marketing, I was able to brand myself, develop a logo, build a website, create professional social media sites, join professional art organizations and expand my visibility in the art world to share with others.
“Summertime” glass, 12″ x 36″
I was fortunate to build a home studio with a large kiln and the tools that I needed to create my glass. Then I expanded my studio to accommodate two more kilns, larger power tools, and a wall with compartments that contains my full sheets of glass that measure 24” x 30”.
“Vivid Intersections” glass, 17″ x 17″
From there, I set annual business and creative goals for myself to grow my brand and sharpen (pun intended) my skills as a fused glass artist. My journey from hobbyist to professional glass artist was largely self-guided. I learned new techniques by participating at in-person and online classes while widening my network each year. In online forums I learn, ask questions and relate with other glass artists. Over the years, my confidence and knowledge continue to grow. This allows me to elevate my art.
“Memphis” glass on metal, 10″ x 24″
Every day I enjoy working in my studio creating new glass art and experimenting with different methods to challenge myself. It brings me joy to be able to call myself a professional artist. I’m grateful for the people and opportunities that I’ve been afforded that helped get me to where I am today.
“Moonlight Madness” glass, 17″ x 17″
I truly am doing what I love. I often feel a deep sense of accomplishment and satisfaction watching the joy of someone discovering my art and choosing to give it a forever home. Witnessing the happiness my art brings…. that is that it is all about.
Jacki Cohen invites you to follow on Facebook and Instagram.