AMY
SHEAGLEY
"Art is the highest form of therapy that will bring hope to all."
Welcome to Artistic Hope Designs Studio...a place where hope and healing are joined together as one in a unique way.
Have you ever considered how life can be compared to a journey in a car in which we are that vehicle? The sculptures created in this studio are not just made of standard glass, but of repurposed auto windshield glass and repurposed auto mirror glass. These windshields are broken by a small rock hitting them to form a crack, or shattered from a fatal wreck. They are then formed into something new and beautiful to behold. The more broken the windshield is, the more easier it is to be reformed again.
That is an analogy of our brokenness. There are times we encounter in life unexpectedly. It is our choice to follow our path that leads to healing. It is our map. You are the driver. Your passengers are family and friends accompanying you on your journey offering support and companionship.
Mirrors represent not only how we see our past to learn from it and keep looking forward, but also how we see things around us. It shows how self-reflection and reassessment in life are vital. Take breaks to rest and refuel. You can make it to your destination of hope and healing. It is possible.
The Purpose of Glass Art
There is something inherently meditative about glass art. The transparency of the material invites viewers to look deeper both into the art and into themselves. For many, this can turn into a reflective practice, offering a moment of introspection and mindfulness. It's an opportunity to pause, breathe, and reconnect with oneself.
When glass shatters the old becomes new. Starting as liquid sand, fire heats the sand into glass. If the glass breaks, it can then be re-created into something new. Glass is very symbolic, and the idea of rebirth is prominent in glass symbolism. A new self can emerge and be strong when you are broken like glass.
With the revealing of the purpose of glass art, it was during the early Medieval Times that glass art played a significant role in hospitals. Stained glass windows were crafted to provide spiritual comfort and inspiration to the sick and caregivers
The Process of Auto Windshield Glass Art
Do you ever wonder how a broken auto windshield can be turned into a beautiful piece of art? I'll tell you now. Auto windshields are chosen from dumpsters of auto body shops.
They are then cracked and cut up with needle nose pliers and tin snips.
An armature is made from chicken wire. Then each piece of glass is glued to the armature according to the design. Many mirrors or other findings are added to embellish it.
After it is formed, many layers of epoxy are poured with sanding in between to give the glass a smooth surface no longer sharp.
Depending on the sculpture's size, a strong structure is formed inside to hold the sculpture up for support. Then it is polished or painted to complete the work of art.
Inserting string lights is the finishing touch for a warm feeling of peace.
