Creator Record
Metadata
Name |
Singletary, Preston |
Nationality or Tribal Affiliation |
Tlingit |
Dates & places of birth and death |
b. 1963 in San Francisco, CA |
Education |
1984-1999: Pilchuck Glass School, Stanwood WA under Lino Tagliapietra, Cecco Ongaro, Benjamin Moore, Dorit Brand, Judy Hill, and Dan Dailey |
Places of residence |
Seattle, WA |
Notes |
ARTIST STATEMENT: "Glass has a defining historic connection with Native Americans in the form of trade beads, which were quickly adopted as a form of ornamentation for clothes and other ceremonial objects. I feel that my work is an exploration of the material of glass and an interpretation of the feeling of Northwest coast art and its symbols. Glass has an inherent sculptural quality that showcases another dimension. I like to think of the shadows created by the glass as showing a fourth dimension of the piece --a sort of a kinetic sculpture that is only revealed when the lighting is right. "I started blowing glass directly out of high school and had the fortuitous opportunity to learn through practical experience. As I never went through university art school training, I learned about art by working with other artists and attending workshops at the Pilchuck Glass School. This experience prompted me to learn about art through what excited me or jarred my interest. In the beginning, this was specifically the act of blowing glass and creating European inspired decorative art pieces. "At some point I came across a catalog about the modern art movement and 'primitivism.' I realized that there was a lot of dialogue about how modern art was influenced by art of 'primitive' societies. These artists tried to embody the spirit of the objects created by other cultures that referenced man’s connection to nature and the cosmos. This was a turning point for me. My work began to take on a more figurative and narrative style with a new intent. I found a source of strength and power that brought me back to my family, society, and cultural roots. "I sometimes hope that people will view my work on other levels not associated with "ethnic art." At the same time, it is this inspiration that gives my work its power. I see my work as an extension of tradition and a declaration that Native cultures are alive and developing new technologies and new ways of communicating the ancient codes and symbols of this land." For more information, please visit the artist's website, http://prestonsingletary.com/ |
