Biography

AMY VALUCK GLASS ART

 Artist's Statement

I knew from an early age that I wanted to pursue a career in art, but it took me a while to discover the medium that suited me best.  I have always loved to draw, and considered majoring in illustration while in college.  Instead, I was taken in by my curiosity in constructing small things, and found jewelry, where I learned to combine beauty and mechanics, and developed discipline and precision as a craftsman.  Ultimately, though, I continued to seek out new mediums, new techniques and possibilities.  Fused glass was an exciting discovery, first as a way to make custom "stones" for my jewelry, and later as a design technique unto itself.  At the same time that I was incorporating fusing and experimentation into my personal work, I was earning a living by documenting and restoring historical stained glass, and supplementing my training with classes in traditional glass painting.  Over the years, I have found these interests beginning to merge and overlap, and taking me in new design directions. 

Amy Valuck is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, who earned her  Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in jewelry and light metals.  Her work in jewelry earned awards including the first annual Cartier Prize, and the MJSA (Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths' Association) Award.  Shortly after graduating, she was introduced to fused glass by an artist friend, and began to incorporate fused glass into her jewelry work.  Less than a year later, she began an apprenticeship in stained glass restoration, and has continued to practice professionally ever since.  In 2014 she opened her own studio, which specializes in the conservation and restoration of historical stained glass windows.  She also creates original autonomous artwork and designs pieces on commission for public locations and private residences.   Her work has been shown in juried craft shows and galleries.  She is a board member of the American Glass Guild and an affiliate member of the Stained Glass Association of America.