These vessel forms are like those below in that they have lenses applied to the inside of them while they are hot, instead of grinding facets on the outside or adding hot bits to the outside.  By adding the bits to the inside and shaping them appropriately I am able to achieve the optical effects I am looking for without compromising the exterior spherical form.  On these two spheres I have painted designs on the outside with reusche fire on enamel paints.  I continue to explore the imagery necessary for this work to really come to life.  For me this work is comprised of processes which are each enjoyable and fun.  I have reached the conclusion that if I am going to be a glass artist for the rest of my life that I should resist making work that I find to be stress inducing, if I can.  For example I really enjoy making goblets, but at the end of the day I am exhausted from the stress of trying to make everything so thin and straight.  When I am done painting I usually feel sort of recharged and looking forward to the next steps in the piece.  These spheres take about two hours to make in the hot shop and I really enjoy the pace that this work imposes.  I have much more to say on this new work, and will as I post more pictures.  

-Matthew Stewart