Author: Birgit

Living my life between 2 continents and sometimes visiting a third.

A little note on presentation & perseverance

Presenting Jason’s glasswork is always a challenge. We want to do it justice, make sure it sparkles and shows it’s best side. But not having our own studio we pack the glass treasures in and out of boxes, and each time we work on promotional photography it is a big deal to get everything we need in one place. But presentation is important. This is not a place to cut corners. Can you do it yourself!? YES you can. Is it incredibly helpful to delegate and focus everybody’s attention and time in a way that they do what they are best at: I don’t even need to ask, right!?

Perseverance. Sometimes getting the right photo can take a lot of shots and even multiple session tries. Then learning to do the photo editing, how to use software, which software to even use: all that takes perseverance. But it is worth it to honour and treasure the glass creations.

Yesterday we realised that we had misplaced the original edit of the image below, but we urgently need a specific file size of it. We have used this image on Jason’s business cards and now need it at a specific size for a residency application. So of course it needed editing immediately tonight, from the original file format, all over again. After an hour it looked like it does in image #1. I had touched up to reduce some odd reflections and a couple of too obvious fingerprints (what were we thinking not wearing gloves when photographing!!!) We were reasonably pleased but I just wasn’t sure it was all it could be. It looks a bit flat and the white was refusing to be white and it just had a bit of the ‘meh’ quality about it… I could have just leant right into the contrast, and thrown my weight around the curves but it didn’t feel like that would be enough by itself..

DSC_5388-3
Image # 1

 

Fast forward another 2 or so hours, it is now 1:30am in the morning. Way too late, as I have other things to attend to besides Jason’s glassblowing career (i.e. my own career / an early morning language class to teach) but honestly I couldn’t leave it as it was before. It just didn’t look fresh enough! And Jason is such a hardworking and talented glassmaker, he needs better than average effort from me!

So.. I wrestled 2 photo editing softwares, created layers in Photoshop Elements;  and with a combination of Lightroom > Photoshop Elements and back into Lightroom the end result is a fresh, fantastic, clear and exciting image that I have now saved in 3 different file sizes for Jason. We are now prepared for all eventualities! Don’t you agree that this is now a tasty eye candy, colour popping photograph of Jason Stopko’s Glass ?!

 

 

DSC_5388-3-5
image # 2

 

I know there is still room for a little more subtlety in the image but it is 1:30am.. there is no time to work on subtlety. But in the future I will try out working with more than 2 layers in photoshop and fine tune my overall approach with more thought before action..

If anybody would like to know how this was done let us know. I can add a description of the photo editing workflow for you to follow.

Signing off duty until the next time, Birgit Deubner. The woman for everything that is not glass in this little business of ours.

Good luck with your application Jason! 

 

1test

2test

test3

 

by Categories: glass, glassblowing, marketing & self promotion, nuts and seeds in glass, Objects of Desire, productsTags: , Leave a comment

Jason’s Glassblowing Classes!

Just a super quick note to say that we just noticed that it isn’t immediately clear that Jason’s Date Night Glassblowing classes cost $345 and that the price is for 2 participants!

We just checked the Glassblowing Class tab on Jason’s website and it leads (as it should) to a booking calendar however doesn’t show until 2 clicks later that the price is $345 (which incidentally is a great value price, you will understand it when you arrive at the studio!) and then the booking form makes it appear like the price is for only 1 participant. While in fact $345 covers 2 participant for a glassblowing class with the one and only, amazing glassblowing instructor: Jason Stropko!

Below are pictures of Jason’s glassblowing classes, some students in the studio and some student work as well as some of Jason’s wonderful work!

lamp

•

   JASON STROPKO WEBSITE HOME PAGE

•

•

by Categories: blog, glassblowing classes, Jason Stropko Glass Leave a comment

Christmas Ornaments by the hands of an Artist

http://www.etsy.com/shop/jasonstropko
Jason Stropko’s Aquatic Safari vase & lampshade (you choose, which)
and for good measure a close up of the vessel
Beautiful vase / lampshade : made by Jason Stropko

 

Jason Stropko Glass

DSC_1926 copy
Jason Stropko: The start of another glass piece
by Categories: blog, christmas, glassblowing, made to order, Objects of DesireTags: , , , , , Leave a comment

Sharing a teaser of Jason Stropko’s incredible glass work

We are sitting in the office, editing photographs of Jason’s work and it’s just too exciting to not share this single teaser image of an upcoming bigger post with a range of incredible vessels made by Jason..

Shaping vessels like this and creating snug fitting lids requires high technical skills that take time, focus and deep passion for the medium to develop. One of our biggest wishes is to develop a whole exhibition full of lidded vessels like this one, in a range of voluptuous shapes, with elegant pointed lids.

dsc_9113-2

New photographs will appear on this page as soon as Birgit get through the edits..

Sorry, this really was a teaser!

dsc_9151-2

 

(Last but not least!!! Custom modification requests to a custom made vessel are ALWAYS welcome, shapes, colours, opacity, translucency, shape, voluptuousness, execution: your vision is our command! Make a drawing and share your ideas with us on Jason’s Facebook wall! What would you like to see!?!? If you would like to order a piece please use the contact tab on this website and we can take it from there. Looking forward to hearing from you!)

 

by Categories: Jason Stropko Glass, lidded vessels, made to order, vase, vesselsTags: , , , , , ,

The treasure we found in Jason’s storage box at the Glass Studio!

As usual Jason leans to squirrelling away his glass and hiding it in storage boxes.. This particular vase is actually quiet new, it was recently made in about July or August 2016.

We have gone ahead and added it to Jason’s Etsy shop because it just is too stunning to wait for it’s forever home at the glassblowing studio any longer.

The vase is very thick and quite heavy but doesn’t lose it’s elegance at all. You know how sometimes thick glass isn’t very elegant? Well this vase is stunning and exquisite! What an incredible statement piece it will be in somebody’s home who also loves this rich lucious colour!

If you are getting the feeling that I am reluctant to part with this beauty then you would have guessed right! But we often move house and until we one day own our very own beautiful little villa we shouldn’t hold on to objects of desire that should really be enjoyed in the present moment.

Let’s not delay! May you feel inspired to acquire this treasure.

With many greetings from the office where I work for Jason,
Birgit

by Categories: glass, glass studio, glassblowing, Jason Stropko Glass, Objects of Desire, tableware, vase Leave a comment

The acorn harvest is in the basket!

Hello Squirrels! (and everybody loving autumn fruits and nuts.).

The acorn harvest is in the bag, we have already selected boxes to ship them in, are just waiting on labels from the printers. This is the season to be nutty.

Jason Stropko Glass Acorn

Clear acorns are proving difficult to photograph, but they are easy to admire. They have lovely light catching qualities and complement well with the etched acorns that we have recently added to the repertoire.

We have a big, giant autumnal goal to get as many acorns out into the world this autumn and winter as possible. Everybody should have some of these precious nuts.

Fun fact: Did you know that acorns are edible? They were an essential crop used to grind into a flour by Native Americans. Since we found out some months ago we have been rearing at the bits to go acorn harvesting (in nature, not the glass studio) and try them for ourselves.

Have we already missed the acorns?!

Another great fun fact: California is home to a great variety of acorns / Oak Trees!

Want to get more connected? Love acorns so much you want to ask about a commission for your wedding table decoration? For a graduation ceremony? For Christmas? For a gift for somebody recently returned from hospital..?Acorns are fabulous, you can use the contact form below to say ‘Hi’ to Jason.

 

 

 

by Categories: christmas, glass, Jason Stropko Glass, nuts and seeds in glass, Objects of Desire, products, VALENTINETags: , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Glassblowing Classes as Date Night : lead by glassblowing instructor Jason Stropko

Why wait for February to treat yourself and your romantic other to a special experience? It is always a good time to book a glassblowing class session and learn to create your very own glass Objects of Desire with the accommodating and highly skilled glassmaker Jason Stropko!

dsc_0094-2

In one of the most recent classes both students got really into their experience and designed and created outstanding glass projects with Jason.

dsc_0085-2

The participants always get as much hands on time with the glass as they are comfortable with. Jason encourages each student to take over their own project as much as possible but is always ready to step in to guarantee that every class participant walks away with some finished work.

dsc_0093-2

Here is what the students made in this class:

 

What would you like to make…?

You can follow the shop or take a class with Jason tabs on the homepage for more information on how you could join a class, too.

www.jasonstropko.wordpress.com

by Categories: glass, glass studio, glassblowing, Jason Stropko Glass, VALENTINE, working with othersTags: , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Feedback for Jason Stropko’s Glassblowing Classes and his qualities as instructor (click to continue reading)

Chad
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2:
Amazing experience learning how to blow glass with Jason. He is a great teacher. Glass blowing is very nuanced and Jason was patient with us the entire time. We had plenty of time to make two pieces each and he made sure we were able to fully execute our visions and they turned out great. Would definitely go back for another round!
Sep 11th 16

Christopher
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2:
This class was worth every penny! Glass blowing was something my girlfriend always wanted to try so I took her on a surprise date to Jason’s class. It went SO well.

Jason is friendly, informative and most importantly patient. Jason quickly showed us an example of what we would be doing by quickly creating a glass cup! My girlfriend and I then took turns making 2 small items each! We made a wine glass and a “cappuccino mug” each. Jason gave us the ability to choose our own shapes and colors! He then even gave us a little gift of two ornaments because we had some extra time left over.

We picked up our work a week later from him and couldn’t be happier! They look great!
Sep 5th 16

TAKE A CLASS WITH JASON : FOLLOW THIS LINK for options

Sen-Sei
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2:
After conducting some research and reading other reviews, I decided to try out the “Beginner Glass Blowing for 2” with Jason. What an awesome experience!

First off, Jason is a PRO when it comes to the art of blowing glass. His skill and passion is transparent (no pun intended). Second, it takes a certain personality type with abundant patience to be a good teacher. My wife and I learned a lot to say the least. Finally, the finished product(s) we created actually didn’t suck; Jason assisted me with a wide bottom wine decanter, and my better half crafted some heavy bottom glasses.

When I confirmed my appointment, I gave Jason a heads up what our favorite colors are and when we showed up, he was prepared. The end result was exactly what wanted.

Now I’m not one to write reviews since everyone can have a different experience and/or opinion. All I can say that for the two of us, we were “blown” away.. (pun intended).

Thanks Jason!
Aug 18th 16

Tianyu
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2:
I sooo recommend this over the group class at Public Glass! We had a lot more hands-on time to get a feel for working the glass, and Jason was flexible with his role depending on your experience/comfort level. I loved that he could verbally explain how to improve/correct our technique throughout the process, without taking over himself whenever something went wrong.

Jason was also very committed to making sure we achieved our creative vision. After describing the shapes/colors we wanted, he quickly made some sample orbs with our colors melted in so we could see how they looked and how they’d react with each other. While we were occupied with something more passive, he also taught us a little about the history of glassblowing. Amazing way to spend 3 hours, do it!
Aug 13th 16

Nancy
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason
I loved this class! Jason is a wonderful teacher – guides you and helps when needed and is calm and supportive throughout. You have time to get the feel of it and actually create something beautiful and useful!

You leave really feeling like you accomplished something. I wholeheartedly recommend doing this!
Aug 11th 16

Kathryn
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
What a fun evening! Jason is an extremely welcoming host, patient instructor and skilled artisan. He taught us all about glassblowing and helped us bring our ideas to life. We left with beautiful pieces that we’ll treasure for years – no one will believe we had a hand in their creation. It’s a hands on, creative, safe experience and I’d recommend it to anyone!
Aug 9th 16

Zoë
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Jason did a great job of explaining the process of blowing glass. He started by making his own and having us watch as he explained the steps involved, which I think is really helpful for beginners! Then we each got to make our own glasses with a lot of help from Jason. He is really thorough and makes sure to answers any questions you may have.
Aug 7th 16

Tammy
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
We had a great time with Jason! His instructions were clear and easy to follow. He was patient & made the whole experience really fun. I would recommend this class to anyone. Loved our pieces. Between the two of us we made 2 lowball glasses, a terrarium and an ornament.
Aug 2nd 16

Latha
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
Jason was a great teacher. Me and my husband had a lot of fun during the class. We made two bowls and two glasses. One was a huge ornamental piece an Jason taught us the techniques patiently. He was nice enough to stay back extra 30 minutes to help us complete the glass we were trying to make. I took couple of glass blowing classes and Jason is the best!

I highly recommend his class. He is very responsive and goes out an extra mile to help you! Thanks a lot Jason for good memories!
Aug 1st 16

Penny
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
If I could leave 6 stars I would. This experienced blew us away and completely exceeded my expectations. Jason provided the perfect balance of instruction and hands-on experience. He was extremely attentive, patient, and supportive of our creations. I don’t think there is any other class like this in the Bay Area–especially with the expertise and professionalism of Jason.

I highly recommend Jason for any glass blowing class he offers, at whatever level of skill or interest you have. It is well worth the money.

We now have a two glass wine decanter and lovely bowl to remember this experience!
Jul 22nd 16

Christina
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
Jason was absolutely awesome! My boyfriend and I were pretty excited to take his class since neither of us had ever blown glass. Jason was an excellent teacher -he did a great job of walking us through the process before we started and he let us be really hands on in making our pieces, while still giving us plenty of guidance. I’d love to take another class with him!
Jun 21st 16

Maria
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
My husband and I had SUCH a great time at this class! Neither of us had blown glass before and didn’t really know anything about the process. We had 4 total people in the class (2 in addition to us) so we each got almost 45 minutes to an hour when working on our item of choice. Jason was such a great teacher, so patient, and gave us plenty of hands on time so you really got to try all the various techniques, but was also ready to swoop in and help to make sure you’d ultimately still be happy with your final product. Highly recommend this class, we have been talking about it to all our friends and coworkers for over a week since we took the class!
Jun 20th 16

Anna
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Jason’s glass was the best Verlocal experience I’ve had thus far (and my boyfriend and I have taken MANY Verlocal classes). He allowed both of us to get lots of hands-on experiences as each of us made our own glass pieces, patiently answered all of my questions about the glass blowing process and even met me the next week in SF to give me our completed glass pieces once they had cooled!

We are looking forward to taking more classes from Jason and strongly recommend you take his class(es), too!
Jun 17th 16

Celestial
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
So much fun! Jason was friendly, patient, and a great instructor. The private session was perfect for hands-on learning: no standing around waiting for a turn. We made a couple of Christmas ornaments and a drinking glass . They came out great! Perfect for a unique date-night, or anyone curious about blowing glass.
Dec 15th 15

Raquel
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
What an amazing experience! Jason is a phenomenal teacher – he was such a joy to learn with. My boyfriend and I had never blown glass before, and we really enjoyed it. It was such an interesting process – I love that we got to have creative freedom, and Jason really helped us bring our ideas to life. We made a pretty sweet bowl and vase. This is the perfect date night or gift!
Nov 19th 15

Ellen
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Hands down one of the best classes that I have ever taken.. Jason is an excellent teacher … very clear, concise and very, very patient!I learned so much about the process which gave me a greater appreciation of the art of glass blowing. I did not realize that there was not only a process but also a ‘dance’ to making objects. This class exceeded all of my expectations and went by too quickly. I really hope I have another chance to take a class from Jason. I highly recommend this class to everyone.
Oct 23rd 15

Lindsey
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Jason is an incredible teacher!! I had such a blast at class; by far, it definitely exceeded my expectations. The time flew by – plus I gained a greater understanding and appreciation of this craft. I didn’t realize how detailed the process is and learned so much. I HIGHLY recommend this to class. : )
Oct 6th 15

Alejandro
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
This was my first time at a class for glass making and I must say it was amazing. Jason has the confidence, patience and expertise to show you the basics and then progressing with more elaborate designs if you are up for the challenge. As a beginners class we got to do so much and is really hands on. He will show you how to really get in and shine while creating your design. Very happy with this class, thankful and definitively will be visiting the studio more often to sharpen up my craft.
Oct 1st 15

Sarah
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Had a great time with Jason! He was a very good instructor. He tailored our class to exactly what we wanted to do and learn. I would definitely continue and take future classes with Jason.
Sep 26th 15

Kacey
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason
Jason’s Studio is really cool, I felt like I was getting a sneak peak at all his upcoming works! I’ll definitely be back =]
Sep 4th 15

by Categories: gift, glassblowing classesTags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Contrary to the sparsity of blog-posts: Jason continues to work full time in glass (we have reviews to prove it)

Jason accepted employment in a key position with a successful West Coast glassmaking company and got really busy working a few regular shifts each week for them. Additionally there were so many glassblowing classes to teach and students to manage that somehow we fell off the wagon keeping you up to date with it all.

Birgit (who takes the photos and does a lot of the posting, but not all) hasn’t been able to spend time at the glassblowing studio to capture all the glassmaking sessions with Jason’s students, which is why there is so little to share at the moment.

What we do have are some amazing feedbacks from students of the past 3 months. Incredibly positive and very happy customers!

Here is just one of those feedbacks:

Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …

” After conducting some research and reading other reviews, I decided to try out the “Beginner Glass Blowing for 2” with Jason. What an awesome experience! First off, Jason is a PRO when it comes to the art of blowing glass. His skill and passion is transparent (no pun intended). Second, it takes a certain personality type with abundant patience to be a good teacher. My wife and I learned a lot to say the least. Finally, the finished product(s) we created actually didn’t suck; Jason assisted me with a wide bottom wine decanter, and my better half crafted some heavy bottom glasses. When I confirmed my appointment, I gave Jason a heads up what our favorite colors are and when we showed up, he was prepared. The end result was exactly what wanted. Now I’m not one to write reviews since everyone can have a different experience and/or opinion. All I can say that for the two of us, we were “blown” away.. (pun intended). Thanks Jason! “
Did this wet your appetite, too?
You can book classes STRAIGHT through Jason for a lower cost than using our booking agent. Or if you don’t know Jason go ahead and DO use our booking agent (that link above the feedback will take you there).
For all other’s: click on the ‘HOME’ button and you will see options: shop (pay Jason directly) or take classes: pay the booking agent who takes a total of 20% of the price you pay in fees.. 5% fees you pay and 15% we pay. Gig economy… Always go straight to the artist when you feel confident to do so!
by Categories: glass, glass studio, glassblowing classes, Jason Stropko Glass Leave a comment

How lidded vessels are made

It’s been quite a while since we made a post from the glass studio! Here you can see some of the working process that goes into creating lidded vessels, which serve beautifully for functional as well as decorative use.

They make amazing trophies but also can be custom made for sweets and table displays or special flower arrangements. If you send Jason Stropko your design he can give you a quote and create pretty much any object of desire thanks to a well rounded technical ability that takes many years to master!

Jason has now been making glass full time professionally for 10 years + 4 years study before beginning on this career path!

by Categories: glass, glassblowing classes, Jason Stropko Glass, lidded vessels, made to orderTags: , Leave a comment